Denver - University of Denver men's golfer Espen Kofstad (Oslo, Norway) won the 2009 "Arets Talent" award as Norway's top amateur, the Norwegian Golf Federation announced today.

"It's nice to see all of Espen's hard work paying off," head coach Eric Hoos said. "This is a great award for him, and we are happy that we have him for his senior season at the University of Denver."

The "Arets Talent" is awarded to a male or female amateur athlete who demonstrates excellent tournament results, great exercise diligence and other positive aspects.

"Espen has through his achievements as a college player established himself as one of the most exciting players in the Norwegian golf," the Norwegian Golf Federation said. "The impressive show, he has won college tournaments in the last two years. He was one of Norway's most important players at this year's Men's Championship for amateurs in Wales when Norway as a team sensationally was No. 4 Espen has a great future as a golfer, with its seriousness, dedication and his talent, he can reach very far. "

Kofstad won the 2009 Sun Belt Conference Tournament, when he shot a 208 (8-under par), and finished in the top 10 at three other tournaments last season. Additionally, Kofstad won the Norwegian National Championship and represented his country at the World Amateur Championships in Australia.