Skip To Main Content

Upcoming Events and Recent Results

Western Illinois University Athletics

Clint Ratkovich
Sarah Twidwell

Ratkovich Named Semifinalist for Campbell Trophy

WIU's Clint Ratkovich has a chance to secure a postgraduate scholarship.

IRVING, Texas – The National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame (NFF) announced a record 199 semifinalists for the 2020 William V. Campbell Trophy Thursday (Oct. 1), and Western Illinois' Clint Ratkovich is in the running for the coveted award. 

"This is terrific news. To set a record for the number of Campbell nominees is extra special during the pandemic because it shows how the stature of the award continues to rise even during these challenging times," said NFF Chairman Archie Manning, whose sons Peyton (Campbell Trophy® winner) and Eli were named NFF National Scholar-Athletes in 1997 and 2003, respectively. "We have worked hard to expand the profile of the award, and it's extremely gratifying to have so many schools participate this year with nominations. We believe it sends an important message to the younger student-athletes that you truly can do it all, succeeding on the field, in the classroom and as leaders in the community."

Celebrating its 31st year, the award recognizes football scholar-athletes for their combined academic success, football performance, and exemplary leadership. The NFF will announce 12-to-14 finalists in November, and each will receive an $18,000 postgraduate scholarship as a member of the 2020 NFF National Scholar-Athlete Class Presented by Fidelity Investments. One member of the class will be declared as the winner of the 31st Campbell Trophy® Presented by Mazda, having his postgraduate scholarship increased to $25,000 and receiving his own 25-pound-bronze version of the iconic statue.

Institutions were allowed one nomination, and Ratkovich was chosen to represent WIU. Candidates must be a senior or graduate student in their final year of playing eligibility, have a GPA of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale, have outstanding football ability as a first-team player or significant contributor, and have demonstrated strong leadership and citizenship. The Leathernecks' third-year captain certainly fits the bill, as HERO Sports named the Illinois native a preseason All-American ahead of the 2020 season, and the recognition comes on the heels of back-to-back First Team All-Missouri Valley Football Conference honors. His career numbers include 1,204 receiving yards, 429 rushing yards, and 13 total touchdowns. 

Ratkovich is pursuing a bachelor's degree in engineering technology while boasting one of the highest GPAs on Western's current roster. He is also a two-time MVFC all-academic selection. 

The Missouri Valley recently announced its eight-game, conference-only schedule, which will begin with South Dakota hosting WIU in Vermillion, S.D., on Feb. 19, 2020. 
Print Friendly Version

Related Videos

Now Playing:

Related Stories