May 10, 2006
NORMAL, Ill. -
Proving that his leadership qualities extend off the football field, Illinois State quarterback Luke Drone has been selected from a pool of 1,300 top student-athletes from across the country, to represent ISU at the NCAA Leadership Conference. Drone, and the other 351 student-athletes selected, will travel to Lake Buena Vista, Fla., from May 28-June 1 to participate in the annual conference, which is held at Disney's Yacht Beach Club Resort.
A 2005 All-Gateway Football Conference Honorable Mention selection, Drone passed for 2,930 yards and 22 touchdowns, the second most in a season by a Redbird signal caller. The sophomore also carries a 2.93 GPA in physical education.
Illinois State assistant athletics director for academics and life skills Jane Fulton explained the process behind the nominations.
"Student-athletes must meet certain criteria concerning leadership, service, athletic performance and academics," said Fulton. "We had the privilege of nominating four Illinois State student-athletes for this year's conference. We have had one representative from ISU each year the conference has been held (1998). Some schools aren't lucky enough to be represented at the national conference, but we have been very fortunate.
"To be selected is an honor and a tribute to the type of person Luke is," Fulton continued. "He is a great representative and a great leader. Luke will take his vision and passion for Illinois State to the conference and will also learn a lot, bringing it back to instill into our program."
Head football coach Denver Johnson echoed Fulton's sentiments about his quarterback.
"This is truly a great honor," said Johnson. "Luke will be an outstanding representative for Illinois State University and our athletic program. This is a tribute to his character and the type of person he is."
