Oct. 3, 2008

POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. - Marist senior offensive lineman Jake Dembow (Merrimack, N.H.) was named one of 164 semifinalists across the country for the 2008 Draddy Trophy. Semifinalists are nominated by their schools - which are limited to one nominee each - and must be a senior or graduate student in their final year of eligibility. The award is presented by The National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame.

Nominees must have a grade-point average of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale, outstanding football ability and a demonstration of strong leadership and citizenship. The award was established to honor former National Football Foundation Chairman Vincent DePaul Draddy, a Manhattan College quarterback who developed the Izod and Lacoste brands. The award comes with a 25-pound bronze trophy and a $25,000 post-graduate scholarship.

The National Football Foundation Awards Committee will select and announce up to 15 finalists on Oct. 29. Each finalist will be recognized as part of the 2008 National Scholar-Athlete Class, receiving an $18,000 post-graduate scholarship. The Draddy winner will be announced at the National Football Foundation's Awards Dinner on Dec. 9.