NEW ORLEANS — The image of the student-athlete was on full display Friday when, as part of a pep rally, five UL seniors walked through a sea of family, friends and fans to receive their graduation honors.

The crowd had already gathered and started dancing along to live music playing in the Marriott Hotel when UL officials took to the stage to introduce the UL football team. As if it was any other rally, the players walked in to the cheers of the crowd, parting the wave of red as they entered.

The event then turned. It was no longer a celebration of athletics but rather an acknowledgement of academic achievement and perseverance.

In one quick announcement the party became a graduation ceremony.

The players who had entered the ballroom, dressed in team jackets and shorts, formed a two-by-two line down the length of the room after the announcement, locking arms to form a human-arch tunnel. It was then time for the graduation walk, as only teammates could have made it.

UL players Dwight Bently, Le’Marcus Gibson, Ladarius Green, Andrew Joseph and Kyle Plouhar entered the room wearing caps and gowns over the team clothing, and they were greeted to back pats, high-fives and, in at least on instance, a head lock.

The five men were not able to participate in today’s commencement ceremony because of their participation in the New Orleans Bowl, but, according to UL’s Sports Information Department, officials felt they should be offered the opportunity to walk like other UL seniors.

After going through the loving gauntlet, the soon-to-be graduates moved to the side of the stage. They were then called individually to receive their

diplomas.

Quickly shifting gears after the ceremony, Gibson took the microphone to remind the crowd there was some "business" to complete before UL left New Orleans.

"This is still a football thing," he yelled after leading fans in a UL chant.

The players did take a few moments to reflect on receiving their diplomas.

"It feels great," Gibson said with a huge smile. "It’s a great feeling."

"It was fun, better than (a normal) graduation," Plouhar said.

For Plouhar’s mother, Sue, the event was "incredible," and she said that she was proud that her son earned his degree. Laughing she said, "It’s been a long five years."

After a few minutes of media interviews, the men then left to return to the team and practice, each one holding his diploma.

Athletic Network Footnote:

Click here for video of the UL Football Seniors Graduation in New Orleans.

Click here for photo gallery of French Quarter Parade.