University of Tennessee running back Montario Hardesty has enjoyed crossing the goal line numerous times in his career.
However, he also was quite excited about what he crossed Sunday afternoon - the graduation stage at Thompson-Boling Arena.
"It ranks all the way at the top," the New Bern, N.C., senior said prior to receiving his bachelor's degree in sports management. "Being the first person in my family to go to college, it ranks pretty big."
Hardesty was one of approximately 25 graduating UT athletes invited to attend an informal luncheon with family members beforehand at the Thornton Athletics Student Life Center.
Also joining Hardesty was kicker Daniel Lincoln. Despite getting his business degree in only 3 1/2 years after taking heavy summer loads, Lincoln still found the experience long in challenges.
"It wasn't easy," said Lincoln, who praised the support staff at Thornton Center. "It was very, very challenging. I've had a lot of help."
The Ocala, Fla., player said he plans to begin work on a master's degree while finishing up his football eligibility next season and would love to work for the CIA or FBI after trying professional football.
A number of UT athletes from the lower-profile sports also shared the spotlight Sunday.
All-American rower Erin-Monique Shelton was receiving a fine arts degree, and her mother, Anthea Shelton, came all the way from New Zealand.
"I was very proud of my daughter," Anthea Shelton said. "She came a long way."
The younger Shelton hopes to transition from stroking an oar to a paint brush. After trying to be a member of the New Zealand national rowing team, she plans to work on an advanced degree and teach at the university level while pursuing a painting career.
She believes her experiences as a student athlete at UT will definitely help her.
"Being in such a demanding sport teaches you to work as a team and to push your own limit," she said.
Thornton Center director Eric Brey said graduation is a very significant moment for these athletes.
"To me it's really a celebration of reaching a goal in their life," he said.
John Shearer is a freelance contributor.
© 2009, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.
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Comments » 35
The_Fightin_Dooleys writes:
Hardesty is all class. He is a great example of what student - athlete is all about. Whatever NFL team takes him will be on my short list of favorites.
tubavol writes:
Lincoln should just focus on something other than professional ball. Crompton has a better shot at being an NFL kicker than he does!
ncvol17 writes:
Hardesty is the UT Main Man this year...Congrats to him for on field and academic accomplishments the last 4 years...Congrats to all the other graduating athletes who balance practice, training, games, and academics at the same time.
ThurmondEppy writes:
How about you post your real name and address and I'll put you in contact with Daniel so you can say that to his face
TommyJack writes:
No call for that chit.
Vol_in_GA writes:
Good luck at the next level, Montario.
crimsonviper writes:
M. Hardesty has been a thrill to watch this year.Best of luck to him and the remaining grads.
jhayes0926#638474 writes:
your insensitive drivel just reflects the level you attained in your own field. Do you sweep floors at the local McDonalds?
PowerTandDD writes:
Montarioooooo!!!
Thanks for the memories. Looking forward to watching you on Sundays next season. You made your family and the Volnation very proud.
tenmanjonez#561272 writes:
That WAS a little on the immature, jerkish side of things, but I tell you what, it made me Laugh out loud. Thats funny
In all seriousness, congrats to ALL the graduates and I wish them all good luck in whatever they do persue. Man, daniel lincoln in the FBI.... SWEET! How about that Urbie, now WE have hook ups =)
The_Four_Horsemen writes:
My brother and I got to meet him when our family friend was on the UT softball team. Before we even said hello..he got all cocky and said, "i play football for UT". To which my brother said, "aren't you the kicker, you don't play football."
Lincoln's mouth dropped and he got up and walked out of Mcalister's.
One of the funniest things I have ever seen.
steamboatticket#484773 writes:
Any guy that sports a mohawk on national television should consider taking his business degree into the 101st Airborne. He could introduce himself by saying, "I'm a Screaming Eagle" or "First to fight" or something like that before gettiing huffy and walking away or answering any questions about graduating jump school.
steamboatticket#484773 writes:
Monterio Hardesty's family should be very proud of him. The Volunteers of Tennessee are proud of him. He made us proud of ourselves. Thank you Monterio Hardesty.
DenverVol writes:
Congrats to all the graduating seniors. It's a significant achievement for sure. I wish we had Hardesty for another year. He's had a tough go of it with all the injuries, but he's played himself into a good draft pick this year. I'll enjoy watching him on Sundays. Say what you will about Lincoln, but his kick to win the game against Florida his freshman year will always be what I remember him for. Go VOLS!
Ringside writes:
THis senior class will be remembered for many things, but most of all, character, determination, and perserverance will be at the top. Congrats seniors! GBO
jimr07 writes:
Ha, ha, ha,
dvols writes:
congrats to the gradas...
most embarrassing feed ever!
jmr68ut writes:
Much success in the future guys!!! GBO
tenecvol4 writes:
Congrads to all the Vols-- Hardesty is true class - as opposed to the jerk criticizing Lincoln - who -- did paticipate and did contribute to the team- who won some and yes lost some - who did tough if out when injured - and who does have a degree from a great institution- as opposed to many many of the people who detract from guys and girls who give all they can to the program.Try it yourself sometime !
TennVolAlum writes:
Whoever takes Hardesty in the NFL draft...will be getting an absolute steal of a pick. Runs hard, doesn't quit, tough, physical back. Best of luck Montario, you're all vol.
lomas98 writes:
Lincoln was a freshman in 07. Haven't beaten FL since 2004. I believe that was James Wilhoit you are thinking about. Lincoln did save the season in 07 with kicks against SC and Vandy.
VolunteerLifer writes:
Congratulations to all of the graduates, those who are athletes and those who are not. And good luck to all of them in the future.
FireJohnAdams writes:
Congrats to all those graduating! And Mr. Hardesty, I sure will miss watching you run the ball next year, thanks for all your hard work!
DenverVol writes:
Ooops, maybe I won't remember him for that kick than. I stand corrected. Guess it feels like he's been around since 2004. GO VOLS!
Volunatic writes:
Congrats to Hardesty, Lincoln and all the other Vol grads. You represent your university well!
Fryinpansvols writes:
Thats what we need more Football players graduating college. Some Athletes lose focus of what College is really about. Congrats Montario, Daniel and all Vols and Lady Vols graduating. Hardesty is one of my favorites to ever wear Orange and White. GBO!
The_Four_Horsemen writes:
Or you could kill yourself?
volbald writes:
Lincoln can get his leg healed up, practice like heck, and be a good enough kicker to make an NFL roster. Patience and preservance!
oldvolsfan writes:
hey numnuts we want you to go out and try to kick with an injury to your leg and see how it works for you numnuts
oldvolsfan writes:
lier
orangeman1 writes:
Man, tough thread. I can only say congrats to all the fine athletes at UT. Hardesty always ran hard and fulfilled his obligation to UT in the fullest. Lincoln also did, and thats something all UT fans should be proud of. I sure cant wait to get the new kicker though.
tubavol writes:
Tiny Jackson
1720 Melrose Place
Knoxville, TN 37916
865-595-9485
Thanks for the hook-up with Daniel!
The_Four_Horsemen writes:
What does a municipality located in the Belgian have to do with this story?
The_Four_Horsemen writes:
Is that Hess? Man, it's been a while since I've been in there
tubavol writes:
still waiting.....
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