Cato named WV top amateur athlete for second straight year

MUFB2014_Rice_Cato Lead

 

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.”





More Marshall Sports

Marshall Sports
Integrating new players, coaches a focus for Herd at start of spring practice
Head coach Charles Huff says learning who his team is a critical component of spring football.
March 28, 2024 - 8:47 am
Marshall Sports
Commentary: Final 40 minutes don't tell the story of Marshall's season
The Herd lost by 43 points in its first NCAA Tournament appearance in 27 years, but a 26-7 campaign could help be a springboard for future success.
March 26, 2024 - 4:15 pm
Marshall Sports
Jackson replaces D'Antoni as Marshall basketball coach
Dan D'Antoni is out after a 10-year stint guiding the Marshall men's basketball program. Cornelius Jackson, former associate head coach and a native of Oak Hill, takes over.
March 25, 2024 - 8:25 pm
Marshall Sports
Six home games, trips to Virginia Tech and Ohio State highlight Herd's 2024 schedule
Marshall opens the season August 31 by welcoming Stony Brook.
March 25, 2024 - 2:35 pm