Rohrman Automotive faced significant public pressure after initially withdrawing the grand prize from Purdue student Zachary Spangler, following his successful performance in the Kicks for Cash competition. Spangler had kicked field goals at varying distances during a halftime event, but Rohrman later claimed his final kick was a fraction of a second too late, disqualifying him. After fan outcry, Rohrman reversed their decision, awarding Spangler a choice between a $5,000 check or a two-year car lease.
Trey Rohrman, the company’s director of operations, explained that while the initial decision was based on precise timing, the overwhelming public reaction led them to reconsider. They ultimately decided to honor Spangler’s effort and revise the competition rules to make it more fun and fair. Going forward, smaller prizes will be awarded for each successful kick, with the grand prize now associated with the final kick.
Spangler expressed his surprise at the outcome, stating he felt honored to have influenced the competition’s new rules. Along with awarding him $5,000, Rohrman Automotive also donated an additional $5,000 to Purdue’s student section, The Brigade, to support their activities. Spangler will receive his check during Purdue’s upcoming game against Notre Dame.