Jan. 25, 2008

By Jeff Honza
www.SIUSalukis.com

CARBONDALE, Ill. - Southern Illinois University head coach Dale Lennon announced today that tight end Byron Gettis is leaving the team. Gettis will continue his football career at Division III McKendree College.

Gettis' wife, Latricia, recently accepted a head manager position as a makeup artist and the opportunity was simply too good to pass up.

"This was a tough deciision to make, but it is what's best for me and my family," said Gettis.

Gettis, 28, caught eight passes for 160 yards and one touchdown in 12 games during his short Saluki stint. He was recently awarded the Harry Bobbitt Spirit Award at the team's annual postseason banquet last week.

A native of Cahokia, Ill., Gettis enrolled at SIU in 2006 after spending eight years playing professional baseball primarily in the Kansas City Royals system. He also spent on season with the big league club in 2004.

"I will miss all the friendships and great people at Southern," said Gettis. "I want to thank all my coaches and everyone else in Saluki Athletics for giving me a great opportunity at SIU."

Gettis has three years of eligibility remaining.

"I want to thank Byron for all his hard work and dedication to the Saluki football program and SIU community," said Lennon. "We wish him the best of luck with all his future endeavors."