Reed Designated to Wear #32 During 2018 Season

ALFRED, NY – Senior middle linebacker and 2018 captain, Cole Reed (Gratz, PA/Upper Dauphin Area) has been selected to wear #32 during the 2018 season, marking the inaugural year of AU's #32 program. Following the tragic death of former Alfred University football player, Nick Clark '11 on July 2, 2018, AU athletics announced that the #32 jersey would be given to a hand-selected player that honored Clark's passion, determination and service to others both on and off the field of play. Head Football Coach, Bob Rankl announced that Reed will be the first to wear the #32 at AU following Clark's death. While at AU, Clark was a record-setting All-American outside linebacker and team captain who led the Saxons to back-to-back NCAA Division III Playoffs. Outside of the lines, Clark was a stellar student, dedicated to the Alfred community. "We chose Cole Reed because he shares many of the same attributes that made Nick Clark one of the greatest Alfred University football players of all time," Rankl said. "He gives 100% dedication on the football field and in the classroom. On top of that, he is a great leader, who leads by example as a great teammate. Cole is very deserving of this honor." Reed commented on what it means to wear the AU #32, "To be wearing #32 this year is an absolute honor to remember such a great person and player here at Alfred University." During the 2017 season, Reed established himself as a force in the middle of a stout AU defensive unit that allowed the second fewest touchdowns (15) during Empire 8 play. In the middle linebacker role, Reed led the Saxons during conference play with 70 total tackles. Throughout the entire season, he finished with 108 total tackles, including 46 solo tackles and 62 assisted, ranking second on the team behind only two-time All-American, A.J. LiCata '18. On top of being an incredible athlete, Reed also excels in the classroom as a mechanical engineering major. Academically, Reed is a perennial honoree on the Alfred University Dean's List as well as a member of the Chi Alpha Sigma Honor Society. He also serves as a volunteer for the Hornell Area Concern for Youth, Read Across America and the Alfred Community Clean-up Day that occurs each Spring. Reed and the AU football team will begin the 2018 season with a 1PM kickoff against Thiel on Saturday, September 1. AU athletics will honor Clark prior to the game, with ceremonies beginning at approximately 12:45PM.