Date: June 27, 2002
Contact: Brian Laubscher (540) 463-8676
Release: Upon Receipt

W&L FOOTBALL CLAIMS TWO PRESEASON ALL-AMERICANS
Sullivan and Rapoza Tabbed By Lindy's College Football Preview

Senior Running Back Chris Sullivan

LEXINGTON, Va. -- Washington and Lee senior running back Chris Sullivan (San Antonio, Texas/Alamo Heights) and senior offensive lineman Mat Rapoza (Kill Devil Hills, N.C./Manteo) were both selected as Preseason All-Americans by Lindy's College Football Preview Magazine. Sullivan was a first team pick as an all-purpose runner, while Rapoza was a second team selection at offensive line.

Sullivan earned First Team All-ODAC, First Team All-State, First Team Verizon Academic All-District, Third Team All-Region and Third Team AP Little All-America honors following last season. He led Division III with a school-record 2,024 all-purpose yards and ranked 24th nationally in rushing (1,189 yds.) and 15th nationally in kickoff returns (26.7 ypr.). He totaled 10 touchdowns on the season.

Sullivan enters his senior season ranked second all-time at W&L in all-purpose yards (4,178) and fourth in rushing yards (2,017).

Rapoza also earned numerous accolades during the 2001 campaign after transferring from Swarthmore College. He was named First Team All-ODAC, First Team All-State, First Team All-American (D3Football.com) and Second Team All-Region. He was part of a W&L offensive line which paved the way for 1,825 yards on the ground and surrendered just 10 sacks in 276 passing situations.

Bridgewater offensive lineman Michael Day and Emory & Henry defensive lineman Jelani Patterson were also honored on the Lindy's Preseason All-America Team. Day was a first team pick, while Patterson was a second team selection. Bridgewater was ranked second in the magazine's preseason Top 20.

Washington and Lee finished the 2001 season with a 5-5 overall record. The Generals were 3-3 in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference, tying for second place. W&L returns nine starters on offense and eight starters on defense for the 2002 campaign.

-- GENERALS --