The Pioneers hosted their postseason banquet this past weekend, and junior linebacker Ryan Slager was named the Dick Ullrich '33 Most Valuable Offensive or Defensive Back award winner. Slager received the same recognition as a sophomore as well.
The award is named after Pioneer Hall of Famer Dick Ullrich. Playing both quarterback and halfback, Dick was the leading rusher and leading scorer in the conference, and also averaged over 50 yards a punt. He was also an outstanding basketball player at Grinnell, being named all-conference twice. Following his time at Grinnell, Dick enjoyed a solid career in the NFL, playing for the Chicago Bears. From 1955 – 1996 we named a Dick Ullrich Most Outstanding Back and Most Outstanding Lineman, and from 1996 – present it’s been the Most Outstanding Back. Notable past winners include Dick Yaki Arnell (football and baseball player who is still well-connected with both programs), John Copeland (who has been instrumental in recruiting many talented players from the Bay-area), John Hartung (who played on a conference championship team and served on the Board of Trustees), Barry Huff (school-record holder in the shot put), and Tom Goetz (#4 single season rushing total and who's son TJ played here as well).
After finishing third in the country in tackles as first-year, and leading the country in tackles as a sophomore, Slager had certainly set the bar high for himself. Incredibly, he was able to surpass even those lofty standards as a junior. Slager led Division 3 in tackles yet again, and was named all-conference yet again. He also broke the school record for career tackles, and was able to add to his list of accolades this year, earning all-region recognition from D3football.com. Congratulations Ryan, and heres to even better next year!
