Flashes Hand Out 54 Jersey and Single Digit Jerseys
8/24/2018 10:08:00โฏAM | Football
At the conclusion of Kent State's 2018 preseason camp, four Golden Flashes were presented with jerseys in recognition of their efforts on and off the field.ย The announcements by Head Coach Sean Lewis gained rousing ovations at a team meeting inside Dix Stadium.
Junior center Nate Warnock (Laporte, Ind.) became the fourth annual recipient of the No. 54 jersey, honoring the late Jason Bitsko.ย In a new tradition under Lewis, juniors Nick Faulkner (Canton, Ohio), Will Matthews (Destrehan, La.) and Jamal Parker (Pennsauken, N.J.) were each presented with single digit numbers.
After starting all 12 games at right guard in 2017, Warnock made an offseason transition to center, making a noticeable impact in the weight room and on the field.
"Nate has been the leader up front," Lewis said. ย "He's done a tremendous job switching positions inside, learning a new role and being a vocal leader."
Bitsko had become a mentor and friend to many both on and off the field, before his tragic and sudden passing in August of 2014, during the Golden Flashes' preseason camp.ย When the number 54 came off the sides of Kent State helmets following that season, players missed having it displayed and wanted to continue to honor him.ย
After discussion among coaches, players and Bitsko's family, it was decided that the number should be worn again on a jersey, following its one-year absence.ย But the jersey couldn't be worn by just anyone. It needed to be an offensive lineman who would wear the jersey with the same pride, passion and devotion Jason displayed throughout his life.ย The bearer of the jersey would hold himself to the highest standards and take responsibility for the growth and continuity of teammates.
Recipients of the honor are displayed in the offensive line's meeting room and include Reno Reda, Stefano Millin and Nathan Puthoff.
Five Flashes have now met the team's "Golden Standard" for a single digit. ย Parker, a two-year starter at cornerback, earned back No. 7, the jersey he wore last season. ย
"Jamal's been one of the most consistent defensive backs," Lewis said.ย "He does a fantastic job communicating and making plays. He embodies everything we want from our Golden Standard guy."
Matthews, a running back with 13 career starts, claimed the No. 2.
"Will has been a consistent force at running back all through spring ball and summer camp," Lewis said.ย "He's seeing things on the field quickly and improving daily.ย Will does a great job as a leader off the field as well.ย He's the embodiment of our core values."
Prior to a season-ending injury midway through 2017, Faulkner was one of the fastest developing players on the Flashes' defense.ย He made an offseason transition from to defensive end to outside linebacker and will now don No. 1.
"When we first got here, Nick was recovering from knee injury," Lewis said.ย "He attacked that with great enthusiasm so that he could get back on the field as soon as possible.ย His mental resolve to stay the course has been an amazing journey for him and he's been very efficient on the field."
This past spring, senior linebacker Matt Bahr (Kenton, Ohio) and sophomore defensive back Elvis Hines (Camden, N.J.) became the first recipients of single digit jerseys.
Kent State opens its season Saturday, Sept. 1 at Illinois.ย The Golden Flashes will host Howard in their home opener on Saturday, Sept. 8.
