Wingate’s David Jones Invited To Play In Hula Bowl

November 18, 2006

Wingate, N.C.--Wingate University senior cornerback David Jones (Greenville, S.C./Greenville HS) has been selected to play in the 2007 Hula Bowl, the game's executive director Joe Dan Rogers announced today. Jones is the first Bulldog to earn this honor. He will play for the East Team.

The all-star game is in its 61st year. ESPN will televise the game live on Sunday, January 14, 2007 at 8:30 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time). The Hula Bowl offers senior college football players an opportunity to showcase their talent in front of every NFL team, while being coached by some of the top NCAA Division I coaches.

David Jones started all 11 games at cornerback for Wingate in 2006. A first team All-South Atlantic Conference performer for the second year in a row, Jones recorded four interceptions in his senior campaign to bring his career total to 15. Jones also made 24 tackles (14 solo, 10 assists) in 2006 and knocked down 12 passes.

In a contest that pitted number 17 Newberry College and number 22 Wingate University on Oct. 21, Jones accounted for eight of the Bulldogs' 24 points on a 78-yard touchdown catch and a blocked punt for a safety.

Jones also made an impact on the offensive side of the football in 2006. He notched two receptions for two touchdowns, with an average of 62.5 yards per catch. The two receiving touchdowns in 2006, combined with his three interception returns for scores in his three previous seasons, give him a total of five visits to the end zone in his career.

In 2005, Jones intercepted five passes and made 37 tackles (30 solo, seven assists). Jones had 10 pass deflections and one forced fumble. Jones was a first team All-SAC selection. He had three interceptions, returning one for a touchdown in a big SAC win over Lenoir-Rhyne. Jones was SAC Player of the Week twice in 2004 (Sept. 25 and Oct. 9). He led the Bulldogs with six interceptions and contributed 34 tackles as a sophomore in 2004.

At Greenville High School, Jones was a two-year starter at corner for head coach Larry Frost. Jones made All-Region, All-Conference and All-County as a senior and was a 2002 North/South All-Star game participant.

What They Are Saying about David Jones...

Wingate University president Dr. Jerry McGee:

"The Hula Bowl is reserved for the college players who have enjoyed truly outstanding careers. David Jones is most deserving and will represent his family and Wingate University very well."

Wingate University vice-president and director of athletics Steve Poston:

"Wingate University is extremely proud of David Jones. He has been an exemplary student-athlete during his time at Wingate. David not only has exceptional skills on the football field, but he has also excelled in the classroom and serves as a positive role model for our younger players. David Jones will make a significant contribution in life no matter what avenue he chooses to pursue."

Wingate University head football coach Joe Reich:

"This is very exciting for David Jones and the Wingate University football program. Recognition at such a high level brings much notoriety to our school. David's selection (to the Hula Bowl) helps with publicity and recruiting."

"Scouts have told us all year that David has outstanding physical skills. His height, weight, 40-times and his ability to change directions…his physical gifts are noteworthy. As the scouts started to visit (and watched him work out), they mentioned to us that David's reactions and technique are excellent as well."

"David Jones will gain much experience from the Hula Bowl. He will have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to go to Hawaii. He will test himself against national-level competition. If he plays great and knocks (them) out in practice, David's professional football career will be set on the right path. Without a doubt, it will be an experience he will never forget."

An unidentified NFL player personnel executive:

"David Jones has the talent and ability to play at the next level. He has good size and athletic ability for his position. David has good speed and quickness. He shows that he is a versatile player by playing on offense and returning kicks."

"David will have a great opportunity to showcase his talent in front of 32 NFL teams (at the Hula Bowl). He will also get the chance to practice and play against some elite talent and show his athletic ability. Overall, it will be a great opportunity for him to challenge his skills and get noticed."