Friday, March 03, 2000
Boone honors its football hero
BY KRISTINA GOETZ
The Cincinnati Enquirer
FLORENCE — He has always been one of Boone County's heroes, but on Thursday, the city named a street for him — Shaun Alexander Way.
Before a roaring crowd in Boone County High School's gym, Mr. Alexander stepped forward in a sharp, black suit to accept the street sign.
It was his day — Shaun Alexander Day, proclaimed by the city and county.
“This is great to have your own street at 22,” Mr. Alexander said. “I love you all. Boone County is my heart.”
After several people came to the city with the idea of naming a street after the football star, officials organized the event. Mayor Diane Ewing Whalen told the sea of parents, teachers, students and other fans how the Boone County native has been a source of pride for the community.
He was an honor roll student in high school, class president three years and named 1995 Football Player of the Year and Mr. Football-State of Kentucky as a senior.
He went on to play football at the University of Alabama, rushing for 1,383 yards and 19 touchdowns in 1999. He also caught 25 passes for 323 yards and four touchdowns. He was named Southeast Conference Player of the Year and was the league's leading rusher.
He's expected to be a first-round pick in the National Football League's draft April 15 and 16.
Mr. Alexander thanked his family, his coaches and friends. A few times he choked up when he talked about how God has blessed him and his family.
Each time, trying to hold back the tears, he yelled to the crowd, “1-2-3,” and they shouted back “Go Rebels,” the high school's team nickname.
Mr. Alexander's mother,
Carol, said she could not be any prouder of her son.
“As a parent you never know how your kids are going to turn out,” she said. “You just hope what you say sinks in.
“All those time I thought he wasn't listening, I guess he was.”
Alabama head coach Mike Dubose said the running back was the difference-maker his last year.
“I'm so happy for him,” he said. “I go to a lot of these (events), but I've never been to one where they named a street after someone.
“But Shaun Alexander is special.”
As the principal dismissed the crowd, many swarmed the guest of honor for autographs. He hugged people and posed for pictures.
But as he headed toward the gym's exit, he heard the real cry of stardom. A group of teen-age girls squealed out, “We love you, Shaun.”
He just smiled and kept on signing.
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