The 3rd Annual Knuckle Ball…A Ptich for Life is jus around the corner.  With this year’s event fast approaching, there’s one man who will surely be in the crowd, Mr. J. Kent Friedman.

Haynes and Boone, LLP Partner J. Kent Friedman has been named the inaugural recipient of the Joe Niekro Humanitarian Award, honoring civic service to the Houston community.

“We are privileged to have Mr. J. Kent Friedman as the inaugural recipient of this award,” said Natalie Niekro, daughter of the famed Houston pitcher and president of The Joe Niekro Foundation. “The Joe Niekro Humanitarian Award honors outstanding commitment and contributions to the Houston community. Mr. Friedman is the epitome of what this award represents. It is with great pleasure that we recognize his service and dedication.”

Friedman is a longtime Houston legal, business and civic leader. He serves as chairman of the board of the Harris County– Houston Sports Authority, and serves on the boards of several charitable and corporate entities. Friedman has been recognized by several organizations for his community involvement, including the Houston Bar Auxiliary, which awarded him its Leon Jaworski Award that is given annually to the attorney inHoustonwho has done the most to make a difference in the community.

The award will be presented to Friedman at the third annual Knuckle Ball…A Pitch for Life event April 28 at Minute Maid Park in Houston. To learn more about the event and purchase tickets, visit www.joeniekrofoundation.org/knuckleball.