WHEELING, W.Va. — The West Virginia Sports Writers Association named Rakeem Cato West Virginia’s top amateur athlete for the second consecutive year.
Cato was the recipient of the Hardman Award but did not attend Saturday’s award’s dinner in Wheeling, as he was already headed to north to join the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League.
“I apologize for not being here in person as I am preparing for the next stage of my life and getting prepared to play professional football in Canada for the Montreal Alouettes,” Cato’s statement said. “I would like to first and foremost thank you Huntington, West Virginia, for taking me in as a son. I want to thank Marshall University and Coach (Doc) Holliday and the staff for taking a chance on me and letting me showcase my talents. I am proud that I was able to deliver a Conference (USA) championship and several bowl victories during my tenure which the Marshall family and the City of Huntington can be proud of,” Cato said in a statement provided by his agent Joseph Shultz.
“As I move forward in my career, I know that I am prepared also for life after football by being a graduate of Marshall University. I consider this place my second home and will reflect fondly of my lasting memories that thanks to this community have created for me.
“Sincerely, Rakeem Cato. Go Herd.”