Players flock for alumni game

By David Mitchell     Apr 7, 2004

All-American quarterback Bobby Douglass will find out how far he can still throw a football, and kickers Bucky Scribner and Dan Eichloff will see how much leg they have left April 18 when Kansas University stages its first alumni game prior to the Jayhawks’ spring scrimmage.

“Being the first year, I didn’t think we’d get 65 guys,” said assistant coach Clint Bowen, who is organizing the reunion. “I think by the time it’s said and done we’ll have 100 guys here for the event. That’s more than I expected.”

With a Friday deadline looming for players to respond, 65 former Jayhawks had informed the football office they intended to play as of Tuesday afternoon. About 25 more plan to attend as spectators. KU plans a practice for the former players the day before the game with a dinner to follow.

The alumni contest, which will be played in either a flag or two-hand touch format, is scheduled to start at 1 p.m. a week from Sunday at Memorial Stadium. The spring scrimmage will follow at 3 p.m.

In addition to All-Big Eight selections Douglass (1966-68), Scribner (1980-82) and Eichloff (1990-93), other notables expected to suit up include all-conference lineman and current KU radio analyst David Lawrence (1977, ’79-81) and all-conference lineman and former St. Louis Ram Keith Loneker (1989-92).

Bowen (1992-93) originally had said he wouldn’t play because of his duties as safeties coach, but apparently he won’t get off that easy.

“I’m going to get a few snaps in,” he said.

A handful of Jayhawks on NFL rosters are expected to attend, but likely won’t play. That list includes Don Davis (New England), Andrew Davison (Dallas) and Ron Warner (Washington). NFL veteran Gilbert Brown, who was cut by Green Bay after the season, also is expected to attend.

There is no admission charge for either event, but KU is encouraging fans to make a $2 donation at the gate. Proceeds will benefit the marching band.

Kansas University junior linebacker Nick Reid will field questions from fans at 3 p.m. Thursday during a chat on KUsports.com. Fans can begin submitting questions on the Web site this afternoon.
PREV POST

Despite release form, no official word from Niang

NEXT POST

5902Players flock for alumni game