Dakereon Joyner Nominated for 2023 Wuerffel Trophy

University of South Carolina running back Dakereon Joyner is one of 102 players nominated for the 2023 Wuerffel Trophy, it was announced today by the Wuerffel Foundation, a nonprofit whose mission is to inspire greater service and unity in our communities.

College Football’s Premier Award for Community Service, and one of the most meaningful awards in collegiate sports, The Wuerffel Trophy is named after Danny Wuerffel, the 1996 Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback from the University of Florida who parlayed his success on the football field into a lifetime of service. The Wuerffel Trophy embodies Danny’s commitment to being a humanitarian, while honoring student-athletes who are inspired to serve others and make positive impacts on society.

Joyner, a 6-1, 229-pounder from North Charleston, S.C., is in his sixth season with the Gamecocks. He originally signed as a quarterback, was moved to wide receiver early in his Carolina career and has played running back in his final season with the Gamecocks in 2023. He was the MVP of the 2021 Duke’s Mayo Bowl win over North Carolina. Off the field, he has been very active in the community, both in the Midlands and in his hometown.

“The life changing impact of thinking of others before ourselves is so rewarding, and it’s truly inspiring to see so many student-athletes recognize this, and use their platform for good,” said Danny Wuerffel. “College Football players across the country are making a difference in their communities, and I’m excited to see so many incredible stories associated with the 2023 Wuerffel Trophy candidates.”

Nominations for the Wuerffel Trophy are made by the respective universities’ Sports Information Departments. Semifinalists for the award will be announced on November 2, and finalists will be announced on November 28. The formal announcement of the 2023 recipient is scheduled to be made on December 7 during The Home Depot College Football Awards on ESPN, and the presentation of the 2023 Wuerffel Trophy will take place on February 17, 2024, at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta, GA.