UWG Duo chosen for Football All-Star Game

11/28/2011 4:46:00 PM

Carrollton, GA – Two seniors who helped key the West Georgia Wolves’ turnaround in 2011 have been rewarded for their efforts. Running back James Kennebrew and safety Manny Rodriguez have been selected to play in this Sunday’s National Bowl Game in Allentown, Pa.

The National Bowl is an all-star game for college seniors from across the nation. It is an invitation only game featuring players who earned either All-America or all-conference honors.

Both players were top contributors in 2011 as coach Daryl Dickey guided the Wolves to their first winning season since 2005.

“We are very pleased for both James and Manny,” said Dickey. “This is a great opportunity for them to showcase their talents. I am sure they will do an outstanding job representing themselves and our program, and we are happy to support them.”

Kennebrew, a native of Columbus, was UWG’s second leading rusher in 2011. He carried 103 times for 523 yards, and three touchdowns. For his career, Kennebrew completed his eligibility with 1,924 yards rushing, the fifth highest total in West Georgia history.

Rodriguez, who hails from Lawrenceville, played two seasons at UWG following a transfer from

Wittenberg (Ohio) University. He was the Wolves’ second leading tackler in 2011 with 53 total tackles, including 29 solos. Rodriguez also had two tackles for loss, two passes broken up, and one pass interception during his senior campaign. His career numbers include 115 tackles, including 67 solo stops.

Scouts from a variety of professional leagues will attend Sunday’s game. Also, films of the game and practices will be made available to scouts from all levels of the pro game.

Coaches' Luncheon set to return this fall

Carrollton, GA - Following a successful test run last spring, UWG Athletics is set to bring back an old tradition with a regular Coaches' Luncheon beginning this September.

UWG Athletics hosted a luncheon in the mid-90's, but the event hasn't returned on a regular basis. On Thursday, Senior Associate Athletic Director Eddie Duffey announced the first three dates for the fall schedule of the new Coaches' Luncheon, hosted by American Pie Pizzeria on Maple Street.

"We had a blast at American Pie in January and want to continue that excitement," Duffey said. "This is just one of many ways that UWG Athletics is efforting in the coming year to be more involved with the local community."

The first of the Coaches' Luncheons sponsored by American Pie will be on Wednesday, September 7, just four days before the UWG soccer team begins their home schedule against UNC-Pembroke. The second date will be Wednesday, September 28 headed into Homecoming weekend at UWG.

The third fall date will be on Wednesday, October 12, just ahead of volleyball hosting the GSC/SSC Crossover event and football against Saint Augustine's. All three will begin at approximately 11:30 a.m.

The cost of the lunch buffet at American Pie Pizzeria is $5.99 and includes a drink. All fans are welcome to join West Georgia's coaches and will be treated to a brief chat with head football coach Daryl Dickey, head soccer coach Marisa Kovacs, head volleyball coach Gary Lee as well as newcomers like golf coach Barry Harwell and softball coach Mandy Harris. American Pie Pizzeria is located in the Maple Street Village less than a mile from the UWG campus.