Ashley Hargrove Graves
ashley@athensnews-courier.com
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Josh Appleby made it official Monday.
He’s going to the University of Louisville.
The decision to continue his football career with the Cardinals came after a six-hour visit to the campus last Friday.
“It had a lot to do with the friendly coaching,” said the East Limestone kicker. “I spent a lot of time talking with Kenny Carter, the special teams and running back coach and heard a lot of great things about (head coach) Charlie Strong. The facilities were great; everything was top of the line. I just really felt at home.”
Appleby, a Class 5A honorable mention All-State selection, chose Louisville over an offer from in-state rival Kentucky. Alabama, Florida State, Miami and Texas also showed interest. Last season, he punted 26 times for a 35-yard average with a long of 52 yards. He was also 6 for 9 on field goal attempts with a long of 43, and had 30 touchbacks on kickoffs.
“I never knew if it all would come together when I began playing football four years ago,” Appleby said. “It’s been humbling but cool at the same time. It’s something that a lot of kids always dream of doing but not a lot of them get to do it.”
