CHERRY HILL, N.J. – Thomas Jefferson University Head Women's Basketball Coach Tom Shirley received a Special Achievement Award from the Philadelphia Sports Writers Association at its annual banquet on Monday night.
 
At the first PSWA dinner since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Shirley was bestowed the honor in recognition of his 800^th career victory, which he earned on November 17, 2021 at Shippensburg.
 
In 40-plus seasons in the collegiate ranks, Shirley has compiled an 838-374 record (.691 winning percentage) with stints at DeSales University and Thomas Jefferson University. Currently in his 33^rd campaign with the Rams, Shirley has produced a 689-301 mark (.696), including a 17-3 record this season. He has taken his squads to the NCAA Tournament 11 times, 10 of which have come at Jefferson.
 
Founded in 1904, the Philadelphia Sports Writers Association honors athletes, writers, broadcasters, philanthropists, and many more for extraordinary feats of athleticism, journalism, competition, broadcast, and charity.
 
Additional honorees at the 2023 PSWA Banquet included:
- Philadelphia Phillies – Team of the Year
- Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles – Pro Athlete of the Year
- Maddy Siegrist, Villanova women's basketball – Amateur Athlete of the Year
- Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers – Humanitarian of the Year
- Jay Wright, Hall of Fame basketball coach – Living Legend
- Dan Baker, Philadelphia Phillies public address announcer – Lifetime Achievement Award
- Scott Laughton, Philadelphia Flyers – Good Guy Award
- Tom McGinnis, Philadelphia 76ers radio announcer – Bill Campbell Award
- Jim Salisbury, Philadelphia Phillies beat writer – Stan Hochman Award
- Philadelphia Union – Special Achievement Award