LAKE FOREST, Ill. – Tight end Greg Olsen was honored as the Bears player of the year Monday night at the 21st Annual Comcast SportsNet Sports Awards at the Hilton Chicago.

Olsen’s 54 receptions this past season were the most by a Bears tight end since Hall of Famer Mike Ditka had 75 in 1964. And with five touchdown catches, Olsen became the first tight end to lead the Bears outright in that category since Emery Moorehead also had five in 1982.

Greg Olsen hauls in a 1-yard TD pass in the Bears' season-ending loss to the Texans.

“This is a great honor for me to be here tonight to accept this award,” said Olsen, who was selected by the Bears with the 31st pick in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft.

“I’m very fortunate to play in Chicago. It’s a great city to be an athlete. They treat us really well. The Bears thankfully drafted me when they did. I couldn’t be happier. My teammates and coaches have been great to me, and hopefully I’ll be here for a while.”

Other Chicago athletes who were honored included Reed Johnson (Cubs), John Danks (White Sox), Patrick Kane (Blackhawks), Drew Gooden (Bulls) and Brian McBride (Fire).

The athletes chosen all made considerable contributions to their teams as well as the Chicago community. The dinner, which benefits the March of Dimes, was emceed by Chicago radio personality Steve Dahl.

Hall of Fame Blackhawks legend Bobby Hull received a Lifetime Achievement Award, while 11-year-old Stella McMillan was honored as the Farmers Insurance Inspirational Athlete.

McMillan’s perseverance earned her a spot in an adventure trip in Colorado with the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center in 2007, where her enthusiasm inspired both campers and staff. Among her many athletic activities, Stella excels at baseball, cycling, swimming, kayaking, golf, yoga, horseback riding, and water skiing.