Reda to Carry on Bitsko Legacy With 54 Jersey
8/27/2015 4:37:00 PM | Football
When the number 54 came off the sides of Kent State helmets following the 2014 season, players missed having it displayed and wanted to continue to honor their former teammate. Â
After discussion among coaches and players, it was decided that the number should be worn again on a jersey, following its one-year absence. But the jersey couldn't be worn by just anyone. It needed to be an offensive lineman that would wear the jersey with the same pride, passion and devotion that Jason Bitsko displayed throughout his life. The bearer of the jersey would hold himself to highest standards and take responsibility for the growth and continuity of teammates.
Following a vote of players and coaches, junior left tackle Reno Reda was chosen to don the number 54 for the 2015 season. Reda was presented with the honor at a team meeting Wednesday night, while Head Coach Paul Haynes and Assistant Head Coach/Offensive Line Coach Shawn Clark broke the news at the Kent Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon Thursday at Dix Stadium.
"I was extremely honored and excited," Reda said. "I'm still at a loss for words because this is one of the best honors I've ever received. I have so much gratitude for my coaches and teammates for choosing me. When I stood in front of the team, Coach Clark started to get emotional. I somehow kept my cool until after I was able to speak to the team."
The jersey will be voted upon and worn annually by an offensive lineman. Recipients of the honor will be displayed in the offensive line's meeting room.Â
"Hopefully this is a tradition that will stay here forever," Haynes said.
Kent State opens its season Friday, Sept. 4 at Illinois with a 9 p.m. (Eastern) kickoff on Big Ten Network.Â
