Mark Stoops has only been Kentucky’s head coach for two years, but he’s embraced the program’s past stars as if he’s been a member of the Big Blue Nation for much longer.
Stoops sent UK-themed gifts to a handful of former Wildcat stars this week, extending wishes of a Merry Christmas to some of the program’s most popular players.
A few of those players tweeted out photos of their gifts earlier this week, including San Francisco 49ers tailback Alfonso Smith and Tennessee Titans linebacker Avery Williamson:
https://twitter.com/FonzoRB29/status/547475134823424000
Shout out to Coach Stoops for the Christmas gifts and card! http://t.co/xOFaFOzmaV pic.twitter.com/TGyXJVAbFo
— Avery Williamson (@AWilliamson54) December 23, 2014
The players clearly appreciated the gesture by Stoops. The second-year head coach continues to instill an inclusive culture throughout his program, helping grow a program not known for its success on the gridiron.
Kentucky is one of two SEC teams that will stay home this Christmas season upon failing to earn bowl eligibility.
A former newspaper reporter who has roamed the southeastern United States for years covering football and eating way too many barbecue ribs, if there is such a thing.
