By a vote of the officers and board of directors of the Boxing Writers Association of America, the recipient of the 2010 James A. Farley award for “Honesty and Integrity in Boxing” is Micky Ward.

Ward, a tough junior welterweight from Lowell, Massachusetts, compiled a career record of 38-13 (27 KOs). He is best known to boxing fans for his legendary trilogy with Arturo Gatti, fights that were the final three of Ward’s career, the last being on June 7, 2003.

The movie “THE FIGHTER,” based on Ward’s career is a serious contender for Academy Awards honors. As a result, Ward has transcended his sport and is now known to the mainstream public. He has been a fan-friendly fighter both inside and outside the ring, going out of his way to accommodate the public.

Ward, 45, fought with integrity throughout his career. He never made excuses when he lost and never gloated after a victory. As brutal as his legendary battles with Gatti were, the sportsmanship both men displayed was exemplary. An unlikely friendship ensued and Gatti enlisted Ward’s services as his trainer for the final fight of his career.

Ward will be honored at this year’s BWAA dinner. The date and venue are to be announced.