Miami University's James Gardner Named to Wuerffel Trophy Watch List

2017 Jul 18

Miami University student-athlete James Gardner was named to the Wuerrfel Trophy watch list.

The award is presented annually by the All Sports Association in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Named after 1996 Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Danny Wuerffel from the University of Florida, the Wuerffel Trophy is awarded to the FBS player that best combines exemplary community service with athletic and academic achievement.

Gardner earned third-team All-MAC last season, finishing the year with 45 catches for 750 yards and six touchdowns in 11 games. He opened last season with six catches for 95 yards and two touchdowns at Iowa and had five grabs for 136 yards and a score two weeks later versus Western Kentucky.

More notably though, is what Gardner has done for the Oxford Community. Since his arrival, the wide receiver has volunteered with the Oxford Chamber of Commerce, Parks and Recs department, local groups with physical disabilities and Luna Cares, a local organization that helps with cancer research. He also helped Kramer Elementary teachers move into the new Kramer school this past December. During Miami's trip to the St. Petersburg Bowl, the junior-to-be spent time at the local children's hospital as well.

Voting for the Wuerffel Trophy is performed by a National Selection Committee that includes college football television and print media, industry notables, former head coaches and prior Wuerffel Trophy recipients.

Gardner, of Fort Lauderdale, is earning his Bachelor of Science majoring in Sports Leadership and Management.