The South Carolina Football Hall of Fame has named Summerville defensive lineman Jacob Cotterill a semifinalist for the 2024 Bridge Builder Excellence Award.
Cotterill, a senior who signed this winter to play for the United States Military Academy West Point football program, is one of 10 semifinalists named for the award designed to encourage excellence in the community, in the classroom and on the field. The top three finalists and eventual winner will be announced later and invited to attend the organization’s 11th annual Enshrinement Event April 18 at the Hotel Hartness.
Cotterill’s position coach says the senior was the most impactful player on this year’s Green Wave defense. Fellow coaches must agree because Cotterill was named the team’s defensive MVP.
“Jacob joined us four years ago, and he became better every year until he became the football player he is today,” said Summerville coach Ian Rafferty. “As a sophomore, he fought and fought. He played the whole season with a torn ACL in his junior year. It wasn’t until after 14 games that he found out it was torn. He returned from that injury and didn’t miss a game as a senior. Not only is he a great player, but he is a great leader who always brings out the best in his teammates. With his playing ability, work ethic and character, there is no doubt he will be successful at Army.”
A three-year starter and team captain for the Green Wave, Cotterill has garnered All-State, All-Region and All-Lowcountry honors. He was also named the Class 5A Lower State Defensive Player of the Week three times and the association’s 2024 5A Lower State Lineman of the Year.
Outside of football, Cotterill is a three-year starter on the Summerville wrestling team. In the academic sphere, he’s a three-time letter winner, maintaining a challenging course load of AP classes. Cotterill’s commitment to his community is evident as he reads to elementary school students and leads youth wrestling programs.
The association has a rigorous selection process for the award, with three key criteria. Performance on the football field carries the most weight at 40%, followed by academics at 30% and character at 30%. Cotterill’s nomination is a testament to his excellence in all these areas.
Each statewide nominee will receive a certificate of recognition for their accomplishments, be invited to participate in College and Decision Day at the statehouse May 7 and be invited to celebrate #BBEA24Day May 22 on their social media platforms. In addition, the top 10 semifinalists will be invited to share their stories on the association’s Sports & Leadership Podcast with Chair David Wyatt.
This year’s top 10 boasts an average grade point average of 4.4, give back to their communities and will play college football in the fall.
