[Eric Frantz]

COLUMBUS – The Ohio Army National Guard Senior Bowl III will showcase some of the best college football players in the State of Ohio. Ninety top senior players from the NCAA I-A, II, and III will play “one last game” of their college careers, with the North team coached by Ohio Northern head coach Dean Paul and the South team led by head coach Jack Hatem of Denison University. The game takes place this Saturday, April 14, at Crew Stadium; kick-off at 1pm.

“We’re excited to be part of such a great event for the second year,” said Maj. Phillip McGonagill, officer strength manager for the Ohio Army National Guard. “The collegiate players selected to play in this game embody character traits we call ‘Army Values: Leadership; Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage.’

“We take great pride in our association with this game and these players, and we’re honored to present the winning coach with a minuteman trophy to signify the big win,” McGonagill said. One player from each team will also be recognized for best exemplifying the Army Values during the Senior Bowl II experience. Minutemen trophies will also be presented to selected players at the banquet Friday night.

The National Guard will also have a strong presence during pregame activities and throughout the game. With gates opening at 11:30am, attendees can view several military equipment displays in the plaza area, including a Blackhawk helicopter, and enjoy a performance from the 122nd Army National Guard Rock Band. Guardmembers will staff the Color Guard activities, and Brig. Gen. Rufus Smith, commander of the 174th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, will officiate the coin toss and present the winning trophy.