Trey LaNasa almost missed the deadline for the Wendy's High School Heisman application. The Fort Walton Beach senior learned about the prestigious award from his high school guidance counselor at the beginning of the year. From that point on, he spent countless hours perfecting his application and with a week until due date sent it to his principal for one final review. He says that is when a slight problem occurred.
Fortunately for LaNasa he didn't give up and the deadline was extended an extra to days, allowing him just enough time to get it submitted. From the over 24,000 male applicants, several thousand school winners were announced, then 500 male state finalists, and finally 51 state winners. Those winners were divided into six geographical regionals which send one male and one female finalist to New York City.
The Viking's runner found out he was selected as a national finalist during lunch where he was completely surprised with a drum line, administrators and his family in tow. He thought he was simply a state winner, but was ecstatic to find out he was the Southeast regional winner. As the state winner he received a silver medal and $50 Wendy's gift card and as a national finalist received a gold medal, $2000 for his school, and a $150 gift card. LaNasa who is committed to the University of Florida, will be the second Gator to be up for the award, joining 2013 finalist Devin McDermott. He says it's kind of neat to have that in common with his future teammate.
"It's actually really funny because I was telling Coach Spangler about getting it and he goes, "oh you should talk to Devin because she was a finalist!" That ended up being really cool because I got to talk to her and ask her basically every question under the sun about the whole thing and she was extremely gracious and happy to help me out. Basically, she told me that it's going to be one of the coolest experiences and to really appreciate the moment because it's something very few people have the opportunity to experience."
The award which will be given out the night before the Heisman trophy presentation for college football's most valuable player, epitomizes what it means to be the complete student athlete, a characteristic LaNasa thinks is very important.
"Obviously balance is extremely important in my life and is crucial to maintain during high school. What most people don't understand is that running fast isn't the only thing that college coaches look at, they would rather have someone who is extremely well rounded but also has speed than someone who is just fast."
Maintaining that balance was tough for the senior who was an Eagle Scout, enrolled in AP classes, Student Body President, and ultimately running. Managing his time and responsibility helped him to become a better leader and decision maker.When LaNasa heads to New York on Thursday he will get to see the fruits of his labor while soaking in the bright lights of NYC and a truly VIP experience.
"When I found out that I got to go to the College Heisman Trophy ceremony I was so excited because that's something that everyone in the entire country watches! The fact that I get to be there in person is going to be one of the coolest experiences of my life. I'm especially looking forward to being able to have dinner with all of the Heisman candidates and get their autographs too. The ability to pick the brain of elite athletes like that should never be an opportunity wasted in my opinion."
The award has opened up many doors for LaNasa as well as his Fort Walton Beach High School. ESPN came and shadowed him at school for a day. The school welcomed ESPN with signs, posters, and even one of their slightly famous pep rallies. If he emerges as one of the winners and receives the Wendy's High School Heisman trophy, 10,000$ for his school, and a 500$ Wendy's gift card, or if he doesn't come out on top, LaNasa is just grateful for the whole ride.
"Overall I feel extremely humbled to have made it so far for such a prestigious award and no matter what happens in New York this weekend I will come out of it feeling thankful for such an opportunity."
