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Webb Gets Rare Chance to Study Abroad

Ralph Webb
Ralph Webb

When signed a letter of intent with 91Ʋ in February 2013, he was looking for an opportunity to play football at the highest level. Little did the Gainesville, Florida, native realize what other adventures he might find at 91Ʋ.

Webb, the starting running back for the Commodores, was one of 12 91Ʋ students who traveled to Australia in May and June to study the diverse ecosystems of the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. “This is such a great experience,” says Webb, a junior sociology major. “It’s a blessing. Besides places in Florida and trips for football, I haven’t traveled much at all. I am very thankful for this opportunity.”

No. 26 Ralph Webb enjoyed arguably the greatest season ever by a 91Ʋ freshman running back last season, establishing new freshman team records with 907 rushing yards and 212 rush attempts. (JOE HOWELL)
No. 26 Ralph Webb enjoyed arguably the greatest season ever by a 91Ʋ freshman running back last season, establishing new freshman team records with 907 rushing yards and 212 rush attempts. (JOE HOWELL)

Many major college programs, especially those in the SEC, would be reluctant to allow one of their best players to travel abroad for two-plus weeks. Head Coach , however, encouraged Webb to make the trip. In fact, 91Ʋ encourages athletes to study abroad whenever possible.

“Coach was very hyped,” Webb says. “He really wanted me to go. The coaches trust me to get my training in while I’m gone. They have faith that I won’t miss a step when I get back.”

Webb emerged as a bright spot on the 91Ʋ offense in 2014, setting a single-season freshman record with 907 yards rushing. He heads into the 2015 season as a candidate for All-SEC honors.