Kentucky Christian University (KCU) football has been a force to be reckoned with in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) for years. As a member of the Mid-South Conference, the Knights have consistently produced competitive teams that have made deep runs in the NAIA playoffs. But what sets KCU apart from other NAIA programs, and what makes them a top contender in the division?
A Rich History of Success
Kentucky Christian University has a rich history of success on the gridiron. Since the program's inception in 2008, the Knights have won several conference championships and have appeared in multiple NAIA playoff games. In 2015, KCU made it to the NAIA Championship Series quarterfinals, where they ultimately fell to the eventual national champion, Marian University.
But it's not just the on-field success that sets KCU apart. The program has also produced several notable alumni who have gone on to play professionally. For example, wide receiver D'angelo Jordan signed with the Canadian Football League's (CFL) Saskatchewan Roughriders in 2020, while linebacker Tyler DeVoe was invited to the NFL's Chicago Bears training camp in 2019.
A Commitment to Excellence
So, what drives KCU's success on the field? According to head coach Gene Marsh, it's a commitment to excellence in all aspects of the program. "We strive to be the best in everything we do, from academics to athletics to community service," Marsh said in an interview. "We want our players to be well-rounded individuals who are prepared for success in all areas of life."
Marsh's approach has clearly paid off, as KCU has consistently ranked among the top NAIA programs in terms of academic performance. In 2020, the Knights boasted a cumulative GPA of 3.1, with over 70% of players earning academic all-conference honors.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
KCU's commitment to excellence extends to its facilities, which are among the best in the NAIA. The Knights play their home games at Knight Stadium, a state-of-the-art facility that features a turf field, a video scoreboard, and seating for over 2,000 fans.
In addition to Knight Stadium, KCU also has a top-notch training facility that includes a weight room, a athletic training room, and a sports medicine center. The facility is equipped with the latest technology and equipment, allowing players to train and recover in a safe and effective manner.
A Strong Recruiting Class
KCU's success on the field is also driven by a strong recruiting class. The Knights have consistently brought in top talent from around the country, including several highly-rated recruits from the state of Kentucky.
In 2020, KCU signed a recruiting class that included several all-state selections, as well as a few players who were ranked among the top prospects in the country. The class was widely regarded as one of the best in the NAIA, and is expected to make a significant impact on the field in the coming years.
Community Involvement
KCU's commitment to excellence extends beyond the field, as the program is also heavily involved in the local community. The Knights participate in several community service projects throughout the year, including food drives, charity events, and youth football camps.
In 2020, KCU partnered with the local food bank to host a food drive, which collected over 1,000 pounds of food for families in need. The program also hosted a charity game, which raised over $5,000 for a local children's hospital.
A Bright Future Ahead
As KCU looks to the future, there's no doubt that the program will continue to be a top contender in the NAIA. With a strong recruiting class, state-of-the-art facilities, and a commitment to excellence in all aspects of the program, the Knights are poised for continued success on and off the field.
As head coach Gene Marsh said, "We're excited about the future of our program, and we're looking forward to seeing what the next few years hold. We're committed to being the best, and we're going to work hard to make sure that we achieve our goals."
Gallery of Kentucky Christian University Football
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of KCU's football stadium?
+Knight Stadium
What is KCU's athletic conference?
+Mid-South Conference
What is KCU's record in the NAIA playoffs?
+KCU has appeared in multiple NAIA playoff games, including a quarterfinal appearance in 2015
We hope you've enjoyed learning more about Kentucky Christian University football. With a rich history of success, a commitment to excellence, and a bright future ahead, the Knights are a top contender in the NAIA.