GAINESVILLE, Fla. — A total of 99 Gators are graduating this weekend, including 20 former athletes finishing their degrees. That group features UF Athletic Hall of Fame running back Fred Taylor. Taylor will complete his Sociology degree after leaving school 26 years ago for 13-year NFL career. He spoke with Scott Carter of FloridaGators.com about the driving force behind returning to college. After declaring the 1998 NFL Draft, Taylor promised his grandmother, Rosetta Lusane, that he would come back to UF and graduate. Before she passed on Oct. 31, he visited her that month and shared the news. Taylor is one of three UF Athletic Hall of Fame members graduating this weekend, along with Dudley Hart and Brandon Spikes. Other notable Gators grads include Grant Holloway, Mike Rivera, Trinity Thomas and Parker Valby. The 13 former and current players from the football program include NFL running back Dameon Pierce and starting quarterback Graham Mertz.
I read about Fred Taylor getting his degree this past week, great story. I hear Kelvin is also being encouraged to get his!
Scott Carter's story above is a GREAT read! Every Gator Fan needs to take the time to read this. Heart warming...and a true example of determination, loyalty and keeping one's promises.
