DAPHNE — It was Patrick White’s big day: a special ceremony honoring him as the United States Sports Academy’s Alabama Athlete of the Year.

But in the end, it was White who helped make Tuesday’s event special for others.

He didn’t hesitate, much less object, as a line of folks waited to shake his hand. With a smile on his face, White autographed everything from footballs to photos.

When that was done, he smiled some more, for photos taken with family, friends and fans.

His actions didn’t surprise those who’d gathered to honor White, because he’s become a real “hometown hero,” said Daphne Mayor Fred Small.

“You have really helped put Daphne on the map,” Small said, just before presenting White with a key to the city as part of the award ceremony.

About 150 folks watched as White received an award that he now shares with other famous sports figures. Past recipients include Evander Holyfield, Charles Barkley, Bo Jackson and Davey Allison.

White, West Virginia University Mountaineers quarterback, was named this year’s Alabama Athlete of the Year after several months of online voting.

Academy officials said he beat Seattle Seahawks running-back (and former Crimson Tide player) Shaun Alexander as well as Louisiana State University quarterback JaMarcus Russell in the voting.

For his part, White credited family for providing the foundation for his success — both on and off the field.

“My big brother, Bo, he’s the athlete I always looked up to growing up. My big brother was always my favorite player,” White said.

And continuing community support still matters to him, White said.

“To be 15 hours away and still have this kind of support is great,” he said.

Although he’s happy to be home, White said he’s looking forward to the Mountaineers’ fall football season.

After WVU, White’s hoping to go to the National Football League.

“I’m hoping for that and that’s my plan,” he said.

Former Daphne coach Steve Savarese, now executive director of the Alabama High School Athletic Association, was one of Tuesday’s speakers. He said he hasn’t forgotten White or his positive influence on team members.

“He was like another coach on the field. The kids just followed him and I see the same thing happening at West Virginia,” Savarese said with a smile at White.

“We’re very proud of you, not just because of the sports but because of the person you are.”

White’s grandfather, John Bolton of Daphne, nodded approvingly as he watched his grandson mingle with his fans.

“It’s like that a lot anymore. I know after the (WVU) Mississippi State game, Patrick didn’t get to eat for about an hour because of the crowd of kids; He was just signing things and talking to them,” Bolton said. “He really loves kids.”