Two of Alcorn State University’s most accomplished athletes are headed to the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Hall of Fame.
Roynell Young and James Williams are among nine other heralded SWAC athletes who will be inducted into the invitation only, 2017 SWAC Hall of Fame Reception Thursday, Nov. 30 at The Westin Galleria in Houston, Texas at 6 p.m.
Young is known for being a shutdown defensive back for the Braves football team in the late 70s under coach Marino Casem. Young earned All-SWAC first team honors as well as All-America accolades in 1979, the same year the Braves won the SWAC football championship. Young was also named the Black College Defensive Player of the Year during his senior season. Young finished his Braves career with 20 interceptions and was the first player in Braves history to be chosen as a first round pick in the NFL Draft (23rd overall selection, Philadelphia Eagles in 1980). Young played in Super Bowl XV, earned a Pro Bowl selection in 1981 and was voted the Eagles’ defensive MVP in 1986. He played nine seasons in the NFL.
Being enshrined alongside some of the SWAC’s most iconic figures is a big deal for Young. He appreciates being celebrated with the likes of those who paved the way for his success.
“It feels good because I know the SWAC’s history, and to be a part of that history has special meaning for me,” said Young. “To be a part of the same legacy as Marino Casem, Eddie Robinson, Jack Spinks and Tank Younger is truly important to me.”
Williams was an exceptional, two-sport athlete at Alcorn, earning All-SWAC recognition as a defensive back and a track and field standout in 1966 and 1967. After a stellar collegiate career, Williams went on to play in the NFL for the Cincinnati Bengals for two seasons. Williams is also a member of the Alcorn State University Sports Hall of Fame.
Earning recognition and accolades from his peers for his outstanding athletic tenure as a Brave is something that Williams treasures.
“Three words best describe my feelings; proud, honored and ecstatic,” said Williams. “Being recognized by my peers for my accomplishments as a member of the football and track and field teams is a distinction in which I am very proud. I really enjoyed my years at Alcorn.”
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Alcorn State University is a premier comprehensive land-grant university that develops diverse students into globally competitive leaders, and applies scientific research through collaborative partnerships that benefit the surrounding communities, state, nation, and world.
Posted By: Reginald Culpepper
Tuesday, November 28th 2017 at 3:27PM
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