The Hampton Roads Sports Commission (HRSC), an affiliate of the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, hosted its inaugural Celebration of College Football Awards Dinner on January 31 at the Sheraton Waterside Norfolk. The event, attended by 200 people, recognized and celebrated the local football programs of the Apprentice School, Christopher Newport University, College of William and Mary, Hampton University, Norfolk State University, and Old Dominion University. During the dinner, the Hampton Roads Sports Commission Player of the Year Awards were presented to the top offensive and defensive players within the region.
Ronnie Cameron, a Defensive Tackle from Old Dominion University, was selected as the Defensive Player of the Year. He graduated from ODU with an MBA in December and could not attend the event because he was preparing for a college All-Star Game. ODU Head Coach Bobby Wilder accepted the award on Cameron’s behalf. Wilder said, “What’s so impressive about Ronnie Cameron is that we have a philosophy in our program called Aim High about being a great person, a great student and a great player. He exemplifies that.”
Jonathan Grimes, a Running Back from the College of William & Mary, was named the Offensive Player of the Year. College of William & Mary Head Coach Jimmye Laycock accepted the Offensive Player of the Year award on behalf of Jonathan Grimes who graduated in December and is currently conditioning for the NFL combine. Laycock said, “Jonathan is off the charts as a player, but an even better young man. He graduated in 3 ½ years and is the most decorated football player in the history of William & Mary, which is quite an honor. But then when you meet and talk to him, you’re even more impressed.”
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