David Cassell to be Inducted in SAC Hall of Fame

ROCK HILL, S.C.- Former Mars Hill tight end David Cassell will join the South Atlantic Conference Hall of Fame, the league announced this afternoon.

"David is very deserving of this honor" head football coach Tim Clifton said. "He was one of the most competitive players that has ever played here. He was a great blocker with great hands and had all of the qualities that you look for in a tight end."

Cassell joins the Hall of Fame after finishing his career as one of the most storied tight ends in SAC history. He earned the Jacobs Blocking Trophy during the 2001 season and earned numerous All-American plaudits during his career. He started in 42 games for the Lions and finished his career with 143 catches, 1,929 receiving yards and 20 scores. Cassell was named All-South Atlantic Conference first team three years in a row. He was a second team choice his freshman year. He averaged 45.9 receiving yards per game and 13.3 yards per catch during his career. In the 2001 season, Cassell was named to the D-II Senior Cactus Bowl.

Since graduation, Cassell has become a successful business man and an engaged community leader. He currently serves at the Melting Pot on a weekly basis to provide meals to the homeless community. Cassell also serves as a volunteer coach in the Pioneer League, a League which provides athletic opportunities to home-schooled children.

Cassell, along with longtime SAC football official Charles "Slim" Carriker, Carson-Newman alum Mike Clowney, Tusculum alum Amanda Musick Hale and Wingate graduate Dr. Russell Booker will be inducted at the Hall of Fame Banquet on June 4 in Asheville.