As if earning three-time first-team Pac-10 honors, three-time first-team Pac-10 academic honors, two-time All-American honors, former Morris Trophy winner and offensive team captain didn't speak to the skills and leadership that Alex Mack brought to the table, the senior center added to that list with a prestigious achievement Tuesday evening.

One of 14 finalists for what many consider the "Academic Heisman," the offensive center was named the 2008 winner of the Draddy Award, given annually to one student-athlete in college football that excels through a unique combination of achievement in the classroom and on the field.

Mack was voted the winner of the award over other student-athletes from schools such as Yale, Carnegie Mellon and Harvard.

"It was amazing to win," Mack said. "Academics and football take up so much of your time, and you have to make so many sacrifices. Just to be recognized as a finalist was an honor."

Cal athletic director Sandy Barbour and head coach Jeff Tedford both made the trip with Mack to New York for the award ceremony Tuesday evening at the Waldorf-Astoria.

"We are extremely proud to award this year's Draddy Trophy to Alex," National Football Foundation Chairman Archie Manning said. "He represents the best of the best in collegiate academics and athletics and epitomizes the leadership qualities learned playing our great sport."

An athlete who was relatively unknown in recruiting circles coming out of Santa Barbara (Calif.) San Marcos High School, Mack quickly flourished into one of the premier centers in the country. A former wrestler in high school, the 6-foot-4, 316-pound Mack has credited his wrestling background, coaching instruction from the Bears' staff and hard work and determination for his success on the field.

A player that is a likely first or second round pick in the NFL draft come April, Mack spurned the professional ranks to return for his senior season at Cal. Mack has already graduated with 3.61 grade-point average and a bachelor's degree in legal studies, and has been working on a master's in education. Earning the Draddy Trophy means Mack will receive a $25,000 scholarship, becoming the first Cal player to ever win the trophy.

The 14 other finalists received an $18,000 scholarship.

"Just being up for award is heck of honor," said offensive line coach Jim Michalczik. "To get 18 towards grad work, that's something Alex will have for future if he needs it. (But) winning the award is very special."