HAMILTON, Ont. (November 12, 2009) – Gaels linebacker #T.J. Leeper# of London, Ont., was announced today as the OUA nominee for the Russ Jackson Award.

The Russ Jackson Award is presented annually by CIS to the player who best exemplifies the attributes of academic achievement, football skill and citizenship.

Over the past five seasons Leeper has distinguished himself as one of the most intelligent players to ever play at Queen's. A four-year starter at linebacker, Leeper is a perennial academic all-Canadian who has earned a reputation for being a physical tackler who is always in the right position. In 2009 he led the OUA's top-ranked defence with 40 tackles (32 solo, 16 assisted), five tackles for loss and one fumble recovery.

While completing his degree in life sciences, Leeper has been a committed community volunteer. Among his many endeavours, Leeper has served as a peer tutor both at Queen's and with several local high schools. He volunteers with the Kingston General Hospital working with terminally ill patients, and is a regular visitor to the children's ward. In addition, he has also been a leading force in Queen's Football Reading Heroes, a community outreach program where members of the football team maintain a significant presence in local elementary schools in an effort to inspire grade school children to improve their literacy. Upon completion of his degree, Leeper intends on entering medical school. He is the third Queen's player to be a nominee for the Russ Jackson Award since 2002.

2009 OUA FOOTBALL MAJOR AWARD WINNERS

Most Valuable Player – Michael Faulds (Western)
President's Trophy (Stand-up Defensive Player of the Year) – John Surla (Western)
J.P. Metras (Linemen of the Year) – Matt Morencie (Windsor)
Norm Marshall (Rookie of the Year) – Cody Lynch (McMaster)
Russ Jackson Nominee – T.J. Leeper (Queen's)
Dave “Tuffy” Knight Award (Coach of the Year) – Gary Jeffries (Laurier)
Volunteer Coach of the Year – Ron Van Moerkerke (Laurier)
Officials Award of Merit – Ron MacVinnie