Williams a trophy finalist
During his career at Elmhurst College, Scottie Wiliams broke just about every record he could, and even though the season is over his accolades aren’t yet finished.
Williams (Downers Grove South) was announced as one of the four finalists for the Gagliardi Trophy, honoring the most outstanding football player in Division III. The winner will be named Dec. 12.
“It’s amazing, it’s really surreal,” Williams said. “I really don’t know how to put it into words. I feel truly blessed that God has presented this opportunity to me. I can’t believe it’s happening.”
The senior running back set single-season records in total rushing yards and touchdowns for Elmhurst. Williams led the CCIW in rushing yards, pushing his career total to 3,507, landing him second in conference history and just 7 yards behind the league’s record.
Williams said he owes much of his success to all those around him. Everyone from the offensive line to the trainers who kept him on the field helped him reach this point, Williams said.
“I would have a lot of people to thank,” Williams said about the possibility of winning. “Letting everyone know how thankful I am for them.”
Wheaton: Three Wheaton College soccer players have been named NSCAA/Continenal Tire Division III All-Americas.
After leading the Thunder to the NCAA semifinals, seniors Laura Karsten and Keri Shannon were both selected as first-team All-America by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America. Shannon, a midfielder, was one of the team captains and played in all 27 matches through her senior year. She finished in the top 20 all-time in assists and goals scored for the program.
Karsten excelled as a defender on a Thunder team that only allowed four goals through five playoff games this year. Additionally, Karsten scored four goals and tallied one assist on the year.
Adam Blackman was not only the only Wheaton representative on the men’s side, but he was the lone player named from all of the CCIW. Blackman was honored as a third-team All-America.
Blackman was the leading scorer for Wheaton and earlier in the year was named the CCIW Player of the Year. The sophomore had a goal in each of the Thunder’s playoff games.
College of DuPage: Two of the school’s sports programs are ranked in the top 10 this week. After finishing 9-2 and ending the season with a win in the Citizens Bank Bowl, the COD football team climbed to No. 9 in the country. The women’s basketball team moved up to No. 7 and hopes to take another step higher in upcoming poll.