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Alabama Senior Makes Thorpe List

By University of LAlabama

Published: Wed, July 25, 2007 - 7:07 am

The University of Alabama was represented in one of the first preseason award watch lists, as senior defensive back Simeon Castille was included on the 2007 Jim Thorpe Award watch list, as released by the Jim Thorpe Association today. Castille, a first team All-Southeastern Conference performer a season ago, led the Tide in interceptions with six in 2006. He also recovered a team-high three fumbles last year. "I am honored to be included on this list, which includes some of the finest defensive players in the nation, Castille said "I am excited to open practice and get ready with my teammates for the upcoming season. The Thorpe Award, presented annually to the nation's best college defensive back, is one of college football's most sought after and prestigious awards. It is named after history's greatest all-around athlete, a man who excelled as a running back, passer and kicker on offense, but also starred as a defensive back. Recognized in the Pro Football Hall of Fame simply as "The Legend", Thorpe also played professional baseball and won Olympic gold medals in the decathlon and pentathlon. The watch list is narrowed to 10 semi-finalists the first Monday in November and then to three finalists the Monday before Thanksgiving. The winner is announced on ESPN's College Football Awards Show, nationally telecast on December 6. The official presentation of the award will be in Oklahoma City on February 12. The University of Alabama was represented in one of the first preseason award watch lists, as senior defensive back Simeon Castille was included on the 2007 Jim Thorpe Award watch list, as released by the Jim Thorpe Association today. Castille, a first team All-Southeastern Conference performer a season ago, led the Tide in interceptions with six in 2006. He also recovered a team-high three fumbles last year. "I am honored to be included on this list, which includes some of the finest defensive players in the nation," Castille said. "I am excited to open practice and get ready with my teammates for the upcoming season.The winner is announced on ESPN's College Football Awards Show, nationally telecast on December 6. The official presentation of the award will be in Oklahoma City on February 12.