Being a walk-on athlete is one the most demanding roles in college sports. Walk-ons have to be every bit as committed as scholarship players when it comes to workouts, practices, nutrition — virtually everything. They are rarely rewarded (at least at big-time programs) with significant amounts of playing time, and they have a massive obstacle to deal with that many of their fellow teammates don’t: the enormous cost of paying for college.

While for many people it may seem crazy for a person to subject himself to such hardship, playing a sport for a particular program is often a life-long dream for young men and women. It’s tough to fault anyone who is attempting to achieve such a goal. For the student that does manage to make his dream come true, there is nothing better in the world.

On Wednesday, that dream came true for Vanderbilt fullback Marc Panu. Vanderbilt head coach James Franklin awarded the senior a full scholarship for his longtime dedication to the team. The announcement came in a team meeting where Panu was surrounded by his classmates. (Thanks to LostLetterman for the video)

Now Check Out: “Exclusive Interview With Former Syracuse Walk-On Brandon Reese“

Read More From College Spun

Which SEC Football Programs Have The Most Conference Wins In The 21st Century?

Tyler Moorehead - Thursday, May 23, 2013 3:47 pm

Report: Everett Golson No Longer Enrolled At Notre Dame

Matt Lombardi - Saturday, May 25, 2013 10:37 pm

Two Michigan Students Charged With Creating “Molotov Cocktails” After The Wolverines’ Championship Loss

Matt Lombardi - Saturday, May 25, 2013 11:27 am

Report: Les Miles Doesn’t Think It’s Fair That LSU Has To Play Florida Each Year

Tyler Moorehead - Saturday, May 25, 2013 4:17 pm

Syracuse Men’s Lacrosse Team Gets New Nike Uniforms For Final Four

Annie Dunbar - Kentucky Campus Rep - Saturday, May 25, 2013 11:37 am