Minnesota Football: Ryan Santoso Nominated for Wuerffel Trophy

Minnesota Gophers redshirt senior punter Ryan Santoso was nominated for the Wuerffel Tropy earlier this week. But this award is not for Santoso’s punting prowess. The Wuerffel Trophy is awarded by the All Sports Association to the FBS player that best combines exemplary community service with athletic and academic achievement. It calls itself “College Football's Premier Award for Community Service.”

Santoto while impressing on the field for the Gophers has a huge role in the community as well. He volunteers his time with several charities and non-profits including the Minnesota Masonic Children's Hospital, Boys & Girls Club, Luxton Learning Center and with various sports camps.

Santoso was inspired by his mother who is a nurse to get involved with the U of M Children’s Hospital. He spends time visiting with patients and their families and strives to be a positive light.

"This is not about me, or awards or winning it. It is about living the purest and fullest life I can live no matter who is watching or what position I am in. After football is over I am still going to be the best me I can be."

Along with the community service aspect, Santoso’s academic pursuits qualify him for the award. Santoso is a three-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree who is pursuing a degree in non-profit management.

On the field Santoso will look to improve his punting in his second year in the position for Minnesota. After kicking for two seasons, Santoso moved to punting last season. He finished last season with an average of 40.8 yards. He has placed 29 punts inside the 20 and has a career long of 60 yards.