J.J. Worton hauled in the ESPN Sport Science Newton Award for Best Catch on Saturday night in Southern California.
Worton’s mesmerizing catch against Temple not only helped secure his team’s eventual run to winning the Fiesta Bowl, but also led him to the bright lights of ESPN’s Sport Science Award Show.
Worton beat out Philadelphia Phillies OF Ben Revere, Detroit Lions WR Calvin Johnson, Stanford WR Kodi Whitfield and Seattle Seahawks WR Golden Tate for the award.
“I never thought something like this would happen because of the catch. It is something you dream about when you’re a kid messing around in the backyard and diving into the pool making a catch. I actually have a picture of a catch like that diving into the pool. But it’s been an unbelievable time with all of the recognition that’s coming to UCF. All I can do is say thank you and be appreciative of everything that’s happening,” Worton said after the show concluded.
Former UCF placekicker Matt Prater also received a Sport Science award, his for Best Projectile Launch. Prater set an NFL record with his 64-yard field goal for the Denver Broncos during this past football season.
The show will air on EPSN Feb. 16 at 5 p.m. and also air on ABC Feb. 22.
