LEXINGTON, Kty. – Ali Named to “Unsung Hero All-America Team” by College Football Chronicle: Bamidele Ali, a senior defensive end on the 1997 Wildcats football team, has been named to the “Unsung Hero All-America Team” in the current issue of the College Football Chronicle.
Ali is one of only 12 players selected from all levels of collegiate football, including NCAA Division I-A, I-AA, II, III, and the NAIA. The “Unsung Hero All-America Team” honors players who: 1) place team goals and success above personal gain; 2) serve as a positive role model for his teammates; 3) work hard, persevere, and sacrifice for the betterment of the team; and 4) represent the football program according to the highest standards.
Ali, a native of Marianna, Fla., dreamed of playing Division I-A football and turned down scholarship offers from smaller schools in order to walk on at Kentucky. He played two seasons as a reserve strong safety and earned a scholarship.
For the 1996 season, at the coaches’ request, Ali moved to outside linebacker and was a starter there. The arrival of the new coaching staff in 1997 brought another position change, this time to defensive end – his third position in as many years. Against his personal wishes, Ali again moved for the good of the team. He played very well at end last season and led the team in quarterback sacks with seven. “This award really stands out among the things I’ve done,” Ali said. “It means a lot that they picked meout of all the players around the country.” Ali is the second Wildcats player selected in the two years that the “Unsung Hero Team” has been chosen. Offensive guard John Schlarman was tabbed for the 1996 “Unsung Hero” team.
Hayslip Makes Quick Return: Sophomore wide receiver Andre’ Hayslip made a quick recovery from the shoulder injury he incurred during Monday’s practice. Hayslip was able to participate in most of Wednesday’s practice and is expected to play in the scrimmage on Saturday.
Harris to Play in NFL Europe League: Former Wildcats defensive back George Harris will play for the England Monarchs team of the NFL Europe League, which kicks off its season on Sunday, April 12. Formerly the World League of American Football, the NFL Europe League has a total of six teams. Harris came to UK from the City College of San Francisco and played for the Wildcats in 1994 and 1995. He totaled 130 tackles, three interceptions, three fumble recoveries, and three pass breakups during his two seasons at UK.
Practices Continue: Kentucky has two more practice sessions scheduled this week. Here are the dates, times, and locations: Fri. Apr. 10 2:20 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. Nutter Training Center Sat. Apr. 11 11 a.m. – TBA Commonwealth Stadium (scrimmage) All Wildcats practices and scrimmages are open to the media and public.
