Will Hardy recognized for his community impact on the Wuerffel Trophy Watch List

The Tar Heels' defensive back continues to have a positive impact on society, both on and off the football field.
Sep 16, 2023; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels defensive back Will Hardy (31) reacts in the second quarter at Kenan Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
Sep 16, 2023; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels defensive back Will Hardy (31) reacts in the second quarter at Kenan Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

The Allstate Wuerffel Trophy is an annual award that is presented to a student-athlete who utilizes their platform to serve others and create positive change in their community.

This year's preseason watch list for one of the most honorable awards in college football has been revealed, as Will Hardy of the UNC football program has rightfully earned a spot on the list.

During his three seasons at North Carolina, Hardy has been an outstanding leader for the UNC football program. He has served as the program's representation in the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) while also volunteering with Team Impact and Habitat for Humanity.

Doing a great job of balancing life as a student-athlete, Hardy is a guy who gets the job done both on and off the field. On the gridiron, the Lawrenceville, Georgia native appeared in all 13 games last season, recording 34 tackles (17 solo) to go along with an interception.

There's no denying that college coaches are searching for the best possible talent around. However, these same coaches are looking to bring in players with character and leadership qualities to help shape the culture of how they see the program moving forward. Will Hardy is a perfect example of a culture changer, as he's a guy that has embraced life as a student-athlete while understanding the importance of giving back to his community.

Here's more information regarding the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Award:

The 2025 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy finalists and recipient will be selected by a national voting committee, with input from a fan vote. The 2025 recipient will also serve as Captain of the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team and will be announced live on The Home Depot College Football Awards show on December 12th, airing on ESPN. The Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Presentation Gala will follow on January 31, 2026, at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta.