Southern Illinoise University Athletics
Hill named a semifinalist for Draddy Trophy
10/11/2007 | 12:00:00 | Football
Oct. 11, 2007
DALLAS, Texas - Southern Illinois University senior quarterback Nick Hill is one of 153 semifinalists up for the 2007 National Football Foundation & College Football Hall of Fame's Draddy Trophy.
One of college football's most sought after and competitive awards, the Draddy Trophy recognizes an individual as the absolute best in the country for his combined academic success, football performance and exemplary community leadership.
"The NFF is extremely proud of this year's group of semifinalists," said NFF President & CEO Steven J. Hatchell. "Their substantial commitment to academic excellence, athletic prowess and community service is commendable, and it is our responsibility to honor them for their dedication on and off the playing field."
Nominated by their schools, which are limited to one nominee each, semifinalists must be a senior or graduate student in their final year of eligibility, have a GPA of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale, have outstanding football ability as a first team player, and have demonstrated strong leadership and citizenship.
Statistically, Hill completed 91-of-130 passes for 1,225 yards and 14 touchdowns in six games for the Dawgs this season. He currently leads the Gateway Conference and ranks third in the nation in passing efficiency with a 183.15 rating. Hill also boasts a league-best 14 passing TDs.
Academically, Hill holds a 3.25 GPA as a Special Education major.
"Nick is a great role model and leader for our program," said Saluki head coach Jerry Kill. "He truly meets all the requirements for this award. I'm proud that he is representing SIU and our community."
The NFF Awards Committee will select and announce up to 15 finalists on Oct. 25. Each finalist will be recognized as part of the 2007 National Scholar-Athlete Class, receiving an $18,000 postgraduate scholarship.
The Draddy winner, who will receive a $25,000 postgraduate scholarship, will be announced at the NFF's Annual Awards Dinner on December 4 at the prestigious Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City. A total distribution of more than $300,000 in scholarships will be awarded that evening.
Some past Draddy winners include Danny Wuerffel (Florida, 1996), Peyton Manning (Tennessee, 1997), Chad Pennington (Marshall, 1999), Craig Krenzel (Ohio State, 2003) and Bobby Hoying (Ohio State, 1995).
