RELEASED:  Wednesday, November 21, 2007

UW-Whitewater’s Beaver Named Gagliardi Finalist

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Madison, Wis.--For the second time in his career, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater senior running back Justin Beaver has been named one of 10 finalists for the Gagliardi Trophy.  The Gagliardi Trophy, named in honor of long-time Saint John's University (Minn.) coach John Gagliardi and sponsored by the Saint John's J-Club and Josten's Incorporated, is emblematic of the top player in NCAA Division III football.

Beaver, a native of Palmyra, Wis. (Palmyra-Eagle H.S.), was also a finalist for the national award in 2005.

The all-time leading rusher in Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) history, he has piled up 5,889 yards in his career -- the fourth highest total in the NCAA Divison III record book. 

Already a two-time All-American, in 2005 and 2006, Beaver was recently named the WIAC's Player of the Year, adding the league's Max Sparger Football Scholar-Athlete honor as well. 

Beaver has played a key role in UW-Whitewater's run of success, winning three consecutive WIAC titles, going undefeated in WIAC action three straight years, going undefeated at home three consecutive years and advancing to back-to-back Stagg Bowls. 

Additional finalists for this year’s Gagliardi Trophy include:  Derek Blanchard of Mount Union College (Ohio), Jason Boltus of Hartwick College (N.Y.), Tom Brew of Case Western Reserve University (Ohio), Eric Dube of Dickinson College (Pa.), Paul Keeley of Alfred University (N.Y.), Alex Kofoed of St. John’s University (Minn.), Adrian Pynenberg of Wabash College (Ind.), Drew Smith of Hampden-Sydney College (Va.) and P.J. Thiesen of University of St. Thomas (Minn.).

The field of 10 finalists will be reduced to four, one from each region, and fan balloting will be implemented as part of the selection process this year to determine the trophy recipient.