I was delighted to learn that Ryan Kleppe, a Warhawk senior defensive lineman, has been named as a finalist for the Gagliardi Award. This prestigious annual award goes to the student athlete who distinguishes excellence both on and off the field. That certainly characterizes Ryan. Not only is he one of the best defensive linemen in the nation, he has a wonderful record of academic success and community-service involvement. He has been on the Dean’s List every semester he has been in school and recently won the 2006 WIAC scholar-athelete award. In addition to numerous campus activities, Ryan spends much of his time as a community volunteer.
In the history of the Gagliardi Trophy, only one defensive player has won this award and only a few public university athletes. In my opinion, Ryan epitomizes the essence of a Division III student-athlete and it was my honor to recommend him with high praise.
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