Day 12: Kevin Coco '05

Coco was a star here too

Kevin Coco is one of those players who can inspire his teammates and the fans, even if he doesn't wow you on the field. His determination and perserverance were inspiration enough. But as it turned out, Coco starred on the gridiron too.

Coco came to Columbia in 2000 from McNeil High School in Austin, Texas. He immediately impressed his coaches and was given the shot to compete for a starting slot at offensve tackle by his sophomore year.

By 2002, he was a 6-3, 295-pounder and the top-rated offensive lineman coming into the season. But a horrific injury in week 2 ended his season and also took a lot out of the sails for Columbia's entire season which had started with a great win over Fordham in week 1.

Coco fought back from the injury and helped lead the Lions impressive running attack in 2003. Thanks to his work, backup tailback-turned emergency starter Ayo Oluwale '05 was able to become just the third Columbian to rush for 900 or more yards in a season. For his efforts, Coco was named 2nd Team All Ivy. He made the 2nd Team again in his senior season of 2004 despite a 1-9 season for the Lions.

Kevin went on to attend Columbia law school, where he became one of the editors for the Columbia Business Law Review. He graduated this year.