Luke Duffy Named Finalist for National Football Foundation Scholar-Athlete Award
Dallas, Texas, August 30, 2012 — Washington University in St. Louis freshman linebacker Luke Duffy, Elgin, Ill. (Saint Edward Central Catholic) is one of 26 finalists for the 2012 National Football Foundation High School National Scholar-Athlete Award, as announced Thursday by the organization.
The award will honor one young man from each of the country’s five regions as the best and the brightest for their accomplishments as athletes, scholars and citizens at the high school level. The five winners, who are now playing college football but are being recognized for their previous accomplishments in high school, will be announced the week of October 8.
“I am truly humbled to be a considered a finalist among all the extraordinary student-athletes throughout the country. I cannot thank my parents, high school football coaches, teammates, and the St. Edward community enough for supporting me and helping shape me into the person I have become,” said Duffy. “I would not be where I am today if they hadn't taught me the importance of hard work, discipline, and respect. I am honored to be selected as a finalist for this award.”
Duffy, a 2012 graduate of Saint Edward Central Catholic High School, was team captain and team MVP his senior year while playing for head coach Mike Rolando. A two-time Suburban Christian Conference and all-area selection, he made 87 tackles and had one interception as an outside linebacker. Duffy also ran for 967 yards and 11 touchdowns on the ground, while earning Illinois State Scholar and Academic All-State accolades.
The five winners will travel to New York City to be honored during the NFF Chapter Awards Luncheon, presented by Under Armour, on Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2012, at the Waldorf-Astoria. First bestowed in 1991, the NFF National High School Scholar-Athlete Award has become one of the most prestigious high school honors in the country. Criteria for the award include but are not limited to academic achievement, athletic accolades and community involvement.