ROH 116-Kelly-Kercheval

John “Shipwreck” Kelly

John Kelly lettered as a halfback for the Wildcats from 1929-31 and gained approximately 2,100 rushing yards during his career. He accomplished a season-best 1,074 yards rushing in 1931 and held the UK all-time, single-game record with 280 rushing yards vs. Maryville in 1930.

Ralph Kercheval

Known as perhaps the finest punter in the history of the SEC, Ralph Kercheval lettered in 1931, 1932, and 1933 for the Wildcats. He set SEC season records for most punts (101), yards punted (4,413) and set single-game record for punting average (52.0 avg., min. 10). Kercheval holds one of the longest punts in UK history at a mark of 78 yards. Career wise, he punted 234 times for 9,749 yards and averaged 44.8 yards per punt. He also played quarterback, defensive back and kicker.