Manlius native receives national college gymnastics award

Syracuse (WSYR-TV) – A Fayetteville-Manlius High School graduate was presented with one of the most prestigious awards in college athletics on Wednesday.

University of Illinois gymnast Paul Ruggeri III  received the Nissen-Emery Award at the 2012 College Gymnastics Association/NCAA Championships Banquet in Norman, Okla.

"It's an honor just to be considered for the award," Ruggeri said. "Many Olympians have received the Nissen-Emery, so to be considered among that elite group of gymnasts is an incredible honor to me. I'm grateful to have the opportunity to be here and represent Illinois and be going down in the record books for the Illini."

Ruggeri recently claimed the Big Ten championship in vault and floor and helped lead the Fighting Illini to their fourth consecutive conference title. He is ranked in the top 15 in the US and will compete in the NCAA Championships this weekend.