Szmyt Nominated for 2019 Burlsworth Trophy

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – For the second year in a row, Syracuse redshirt sophomore placekicker Andre Szmyt is a nominee for the Burlsworth Trophy. A record 83 nominees for this year's award were announced on Tuesday, Nov. 5. The Burlsworth Trophy is presented to the most outstanding college football player who began his career as a walk-on.

Szmyt, who was awarded a scholarship six games into last season, ranks fourth in the ACC in field-goal percentage (.786). He's made 11-of-14 field goals on the year and leads the Orange in scoring with 58 points.

The 2018 Lou Groza Award winner, Szmyt is Syracuse's career leader in field-goal percentage (.854, 41-48). He ranks seventh in program history with 207 kicking points.

The Burlsworth Trophy is named in honor of Brandon Burlsworth who walked on at the University of Arkansas in 1994. He became a three-year starter and was eventually named an All-American in 1998. Burlsworth was selected with the 63rd overall pick by the Indianapolis Colts in the 1999 NFL draft, but was tragically killed in a car accident 11 days later. The Burlsworth Foundation was created in his memory and supports the physical and spiritual needs of children, in particular those who have limited opportunities.

"This award is about the journey, the incredibly challenging journey that all of these nominees have taken," said Marty Burlsworth, CEO and founder of the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation and Brandon's older brother. "When you begin your college career as a walk-on there are plenty of skeptics, those that think you can't do it. This group of Burlsworth Trophy nominees have proven all the skeptics wrong. They have put in an immense about of work and overcame numerous obstacles to make their dreams come true."

The Brandon Burlsworth Foundation, in conjunction with the Springdale Rotary Club, will host an awards ceremony on Dec. 9 in Springdale, Arkansas to honor the three finalists and announce this year's winner.

Former Clemson wide receiver Hunter Renfrow won the award in 2018.

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Syracuse University Athletics

Players Mentioned

Andre Szmyt

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