Ripkowski Recipient of 2014 Don Key Award

NORMAN, Okla. – Oklahoma Football has named senior Aaron Ripkowski as the recipient of the 2014 Don Key Award prior to Saturday's Senior Day game vs. Oklahoma State.

The Don Key Award is presented annually to a senior who exemplifies all-around excellence in the classroom and on the field. Key was a three-year starter for the Sooners, an All-Big 8 guard and potential All-American until a battle with cancer ended his football career in 1981. Barry Switzer established the Don Key Award in 1982.

A former high school offensive lineman, Ripkowski originally joined the Sooners as a walk-on in 2011, playing in nine games primarily on special teams. The Dayton, Texas, native has gone on to see duty in a total of 43 contests for Oklahoma, making 13 starts at fullback. A versatile performer, he's also worked as an H-back and tight end in addition to his penchant for making big plays in the kicking game.

Following the 2012 campaign, he earned the Derrick Shepard Award as the team's most inspirational walk-on and was subsequently awarded a scholarship from head coach Bob Stoops. Known by teammates and coaches as a relentless player and tenacious blocker, earlier this season Ripkowski was called on to do something he had never done in his Oklahoma career – carry the football. In a 42-30 victory at Texas Tech, Ripkowski registered the first four carries of his career, all resulting in first downs, including a one-yard touchdown run. His first career score came on a three-yard touchdown catch vs. Iowa State in 2013.

In addition to his work on the field, Ripkowski was one of the Sooners that had the unique opportunity to travel to Ireland as a part of OU's Study Abroad program in May 2014. He is set to graduate in the spring of 2015 with a degree in communications.

He is part of a senior class that has qualified for four consecutive bowls. Entering today's games, no Big 12 team can top Oklahoma's 39 victories over the past four seasons. This group of Oklahoma seniors owns nine victories against AP Top 25 opponents and will have the opportunity to register 10 or more victories in every season dating back to 2011.

For a complete list of former Don Key Award winners follow this link here.