Jan. 17, 2004

Columbia, S.C. –

The University of South Carolina held its annual football awards banquet Friday evening. A crowd in excess of 800 attended the event at Seawell’s on Rosewood Drive.

Senior cornerback Dunta Robinson was honored as the team’s Most Valuable Player. Robinson, who is projected to be one of the top cornerbacks chosen in this year’s NFL draft, finished his career with five interceptions. In 2003, he led the team with 12 pass deflections and also returned one interception for a touchdown.

Quarterback Mike Rathe received the team academic award. Rathe compiled a perfect 4.0 grade point average last fall semester and has a cumulative GPA of 3.90. Linebacker Rod Thomas received the best attitude award, while tailback Cory Boyd was the recipient of the most outstanding freshman award.

Coach Lou Holtz presented the four team captains with their awards: linebacker Jeremiah Garrison, cornerback Dunta Robinson, tight end Hart Turner and offensive tackle Travelle Wharton. Robinson and Turner presented the captains’ address to the crowd. Winners certificates were presented by Coach Holtz to defensive end Moe Thompson, Wharton and Robinson. Wharton received his fourth straight winner’s certificate. Both Wharton and Robinson have been selected to participate in next week’s Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala.