Texas A&M University-Commerce's Juan Velasco Selected for Recognition at NFF Gridiron Club of Dallas

The National Football Foundation (NFF) Gridiron Club of Dallas announced today that Texas A&M University-Commerce senior Juan Velasco is one of 10 college football scholar-athletes who will be recognized at the club's second annual banquet, which will be held April 20 at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Velasco was one of the 10 selected as the best from the entire region at the collegiate level for their combined achievements as students, athletes and leaders in their respective communities. The selection committee included coaches, teachers, administrators and business leaders from the North Texas area.

Velasco (pictured to the left) handled kickoff duties and sered as the punter for the Lone Star Conference North Division Champions in 2009, he is majoring in sports recreation management with a minor in business. He averaged 39 yards per punt last season on 74 attempts and in 2008; he was named First Team All-Lone Star Conference North Division and Don Hansen's Football Gazette Third Team All-Region.

"Each one of these individuals is recognized for their continuing efforts to better themselves through the game of football. They are leaders in football, academics and in their respective communities," said NFF President & CEO Steven J. Hatchell. "We are proud to honor them and shine a light on their hard work and leadership capabilities."

Velasco will be honored along with Lance Calloway of Midwestern State, Quincy Daniels of Mary-Hardin Baylor, Scott Grantham of Tarleton State, Clint Gresham of TCU, Ross Hasten of Austin College, Kylee Hill of North Texas, Chase Kennemer of SMU, Joe Pawelek of Baylor and Kyle Pope of East Texas Baptist.

With doors opening at 6 p.m. and the ceremony starting at 7 p.m., the event will showcase the great stories in North Texas that will inspire future student-athletes to excel in the classroom and become more involved in their communities. The event will also pay tribute to several outstanding individuals for their contributions to the game and the North Texas region. Dallas Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones will accept the Distinguished Texan Award, the gridiron club's most prestigious award. Other awards remaining to be announced include the Legends Award, the Athletics Director of the Year, the Steve Storie Official of the Year, and the high school coaches and assistant coaches of the year.

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