Amidst the chaos of a weekend where Notre Dame football players made headlines for the wrong reasons, a good story comes from the ashes. Walk-on wide receiver Chris Finke was awarded a scholarship. The diminutive slot receiver, currently running No. 2 behind CJ Sanders and also a potential returner for the Irish, earned the scholarship on Monday.
News came via social media, where a group of teammates—and the Walk-on Players Union—gave their congratulations.
The most disrespected soldier was taken by "Scholarship Nation." You will be missed @FinkeMasterFlex. #WOPU2Scholly pic.twitter.com/R2VPUXC3hD
— Notre Dame Walk Ons (@WOPUnation) August 22, 2016
The 5-foot-9.5, 180-pounder from Archbishop Alter in Kettering, Ohio, has quick become a fan favorite. He’s also made himself a Brian Kelly favorite, earning mention last year for his steady hands and moves as a punt returner and this season for his work in the slot.
“He’s Robby Toma with more speed,” Kelly said during fall camp.
(Never mind his inauspicious introduction to BK, as described by the South Bend Tribune’s Mike Vorel.)
Finke took to social media after the news spread on Monday night with the following comment:
“Grateful. Can’t thank the coaches, staff, my teammates, family, friends, and the Good Lord enough!”
Grateful. Can't thank the coaches, staff, my teammates, family, friends, and the Good Lord enough!
— Chris Finke (@SlipperyFox10) August 23, 2016
Here’s more instant reaction from teammates past and present.
It's one thing to see someone get something handed to them but even better to see someone earn something. Congrats brother @FinkeMasterFlex
— Avery Sebastian (@JimThqrpe4) August 23, 2016
Safe to say @FinkeMasterFlex won't have to go through this anymore....congrats brotha, keep killin! ☘☘☘ @WOPUnation pic.twitter.com/1TGEdWNNps
— Travis Allen (@TravyTrav81) August 23, 2016
Cornelius!!!!! Perhaps the shiftiest player on the team and incredibly deserving. Congratulations brother! https://t.co/hqCLEV3lix
— Joe Schmidt IV (@joeschmidtiv) August 22, 2016