Ruffner, a native of Mount Vernon, Ohio, was an Ohio Capital Conference Honorable Mention selection as a senior after qualifying for the district tournament. He was also a two-time recipient of the team’s Coach’s Award. He shot a 72 at the Kent Miller Colonial Tournament as part of the MVHS team and tournament record total of 287. He also carded a 149 (77-72) at the Junior Publinx in Canton, Ohio.

“I am looking forward to Jay’s presence on the team,” said MVNU golf coach Mark Stiverson. “He brings a hard-work ethic, enthusiasm and talent. In my mind, Jay is a blue-collar golfer, grinding every shot out and working toward a better score. He will not only add depth to the team, but he should compete for a tournament spot. Having a player like Jay will force the rest of the team to play and practice hard.”

“There are several reasons why I chose MVNU,” said Ruffner of his college choice. “Coach Stiverson was one of the first coaches to contact me and I had had contact with him for awhile. He showed a lot of interest in me not only as a golfer but as a person and that meant a lot to me. Also, the environment of MVNU was something that was very important to me because I feel like I can better myself as a golfer and as a person in the Christian environment.”

The MVNU golf program finished the 2006-2007 campaign with a 65-47-4 overall record. The Cougars also finished sixth in the American Mideast Conference/NAIA Region IX Tournament.