Hester, Nolin in running for Rudy award

Jeremy Hester, Arnold’s all-state running back and Bay County record holder is one of the 30 finalists nationwide for the high school division of the inaugural Rudy Award, which bestows academic scholarships to three finalists.

Hester was selected out of 396 nominees from 48 states for possessing the qualities of “extraordinary heart” and “triumphing over significant challenges” exemplified by Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger, who was featured in the movie “Rudy” that characterized his extraordinary commitment while an undergraduate student at Notre Dame.

Arnold Athletic Director Julie Hale nominated Hester for the award, established by Trusted Sports and Ruettiger. The winner will receive a $10,000 scholarship and two runners-up each $5,000.

“Jeremy, who lived in the roughest part of New Orleans with eight borthers and sisters, transferred to Arnold High School as a ninth-grader due to the devastation of Hurricane Katrina,” Hale wrote. “Several of his family members died and most were left homeless.

“He has said many times that the best move he ever made was when he moved to Panama City to live with his sisters and her family. Jeremy possesses the character, commitment, heart, drive and desire that any coach would want his player to have, and parent would want his child to have.”

The three finalists will be chosen by the public, which can vote at www.HighSchoolRudyawards.com and a selection committee which includes former Indianapolis and New Orleans head coach Jim Mora Sr., as well as former NFL standouts Shaun Alexander and Drew Bledsoe.

The finalists for the high school award will be announced Feb. 3.

Former Graceville player and current Troy University student Nate Nolin was nominated for the college Rudy Award. The winner of the college Rudy Award will have an academic scholarship named in their honor to his university. Fans may vote for Nolin at www.collegerudyawards.com. Winners of the college award will be announced Jan. 11.