Theriot a finalist for Heisman

Rick Devereux

Newport Harbor High senior Trevor Theriot was announced as one of 12

national finalists for the Wendy’s High School Heisman Award at a

ceremony and school rally Friday morning.

Theriot -- announced as the California winner Nov. 4, one of 102

state honorees along with the District of Columbia -- was unaware of

the focus of Friday’s ceremony, which included family members.

“It caught me by surprise because I thought the rally was for the

state award,” Theriot said. “I’m really, really shocked that I’m one

of the six male finalists. All of my hard work on and off the field

has paid off.”

The presentation came a day after the football team won the Sea

View League championship.

“Everything’s coming at once,” Theriot said. “I hope we can

continue this ride and win CIF [Southern Section Division VI

championship].”

Newport Harbor received a $1,000 donation because Theriot was

named a finalist. Theriot will travel to New York Dec. 10 to

participate in the Heisman weekend festivities. If Theriot is named

the national Heisman winner, Newport Harbor will receive an

additional $2,500 and a crystal trophy. The national winners will be

announced during a special ceremonial, which will be broadcast live

Dec. 12 on ESPN2 at 3:30 p.m.

Theriot, a running back and linebacker on the football team,

maintains a 4.0 GPA and is being recruited by many Pac-10

universities.

“We are extremely proud of what he’s accomplished not only on the

football field but also with his work in the community,” Coach Jeff

Brinkley said.

Theriot, a fullback last year, was thrust into the starting

tailback slot after projected starter Ryan Rippon suffered ligament

damage in his knee before the season began. Theriot leads the team

with 1,083 yards and seven touchdowns on 163 rushing attempts despite

missing two games with a dislocated left elbow.

“He is very self-disciplined and works very hard,” Brinkley said.

“He has never missed a day of football in his entire career here. He

has been to every practice, every workout, every game.”

Created in 1994, the Wendy’s High School Heisman Award recognizes

outstanding, well-rounded students.

“He represents our program well,” Brinkley said. “[The award] is

good for the entire program because it shows what type of kids we

have that come through here.”

Theriot has been involved with the Boys and Girls Club for many

years. He has coached roller hockey and basketball at the Lou Yantorn

Branch in Costa Mesa and has helped with a football clinic at St.

Joachim Catholic School in Costa Mesa.