Leesburg's second pro draft choice
By Don McMullen
Sports Editor
of the Leesburg Commercial
May 1, 1980
Waiting for the results from the National Football League college draft must be agony for the hundreds of aspiring seniors ready for a crack at the big time.
But it isn't any easier for the relatives who must also sit and wait as the rounds go by.
Just ask Mrs. Elisha Hamilton, Wayne Hamilton's mother, Wayne played his high school ball at Leesburg before moving on to Coach Bear Bryant and the Crimson Tide of Alabama, and now he has the opportunity to tryout for the San Diego Chargers of the American Football Conference.
Wayne was chosen 26th in the sixth round of the college draft Tuesday by the Chargers, and as soon as he found out, he flew to Houston, Texas, to confer with his agent before flying out to San Diego today.
"I am very thrilled to be just a part of Wayne's success,: Mrs. Hamilton told the Leesburg Commercial. "I really don't have words to express my feelings.
"I've always knew that he would accomplish something-he always wanted to be a part of sports. But, you know, sometimes he would come home all banged up, but I would never stop him from playing.
"I'm just thrilled, but I bet he is a lot happier than I am right now. I just want to express my appreciation to all the schools and coaches that helped him."
Not only has Mrs. Hamilton watched her son grow into pro potential, she also has had the opportunity to attend Alabama's home games, and went to New Orleans for the Sugar Bowl.
There can be no doubt that Wayne is happy with the choice. The Chargers, noted for their potent offense but weak defense, may be able to use a 6-foot-5, 232 pound defensive end. He made 52 total tackles, 28 individuals and 24 assists, snatched runners on eight tackles that netted a loss of 46 yards, recovered two fumbles and caused one, had three quarterback sacks and pressured the passer 11 times.
He was equally devastating against the run or the pass.
The only other Leesburg native to make it to the pros, Greg Johnson played for a succession of pro teams and now plays in the Canadian Football league.
But for Wayne Hamilton, the road now leads to San Diego, and one of the more interesting facets of the draft game begins.
With his agent on hand, Wayne must now hammer out a contaract with the Chargers. Wayne's brother, Cecil, told The Commercial, that he should be flying from Houston to San Diego today to conduct contract talks.
After Wayne returns from San Diego, members of the Leesburg community are planning a "Tribute to Wayne" night. According to Hubert Dabney, the athletic director at Leesburg High School, on May 17th at 7 p.m. in a yet undecided location, friends and family will get together to pay tribute to one of Leesburg's own.
Relatives from all over the United States will congregate to say a few words to Wayne and wish him the best in his professional efforts. On hand for the occasion will be nine or 10 of Wayne's teammates from last years Tide, among them Don McNeal, and Dwight Stevens, The Miami Dolphins No.1 and No. 3 picks in the draft Tuesday.
And as a special tribute, Coach Bear Bryant may come down to take part in the evening.
After all the thanks and remembrances have been spoken, the night will be capped off with highlight films from Wayne's career at Alabama, including the memorable game against USC.
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