Oct. 22, 2002

By Allen Thigpen, Sports Information Student Assistant

There has never been anyone more prepared to make a name for himself than Mike Espy. The 6-foot, 187-pound wide receiver from Madison, Miss., has both the upbringing and dedication to ensure a successful career in a Rebel uniform.

His name recognition was present before he ever stepped foot in Oxford. The elder Mike Espy is well known to Mississippians for his political career, which included time in the nation's capital. Being the son of a public figure, Espy grew up learning to handle the pressures that come with notoriety.

"When I was growing up, my dad was doing countless interviews and was always on television," said Espy, a redshirt freshman. "Even to this day, he tries to teach me on how to do interviews and dealing with being in the spotlight. He has been a real positive role model to me."

Mentoring Espy during his time at Ole Miss have been fellow Rebel receivers Chris Collins and Jason Armstead. Their guidance, both on and off the field, has given Espy the support most young athletes need.

"They're like my big brothers on the team," said Espy, a Liberal Arts major. "I traveled with the team last year, and Chris was my roommate every game. With Jason, every time I mess up, I know that he knows. It's like I have two extra sets of eyes on me all the time."

After a redshirt year in which he developed his strength and a better understanding of the offensive system, Espy feels he is ready to help the Rebels achieve their team goals.

"I'm not looking to put up any particular stats. I'm just trying to contribute to the team any way I can, whether it's through special teams, offense or whatever," said Espy. "Spiritually and emotionally, I'm trying to help this team win."

Through his dedication to the team combined with support from family and teammates, Espy is sure to make a name for himself that Rebel fans everywhere will remember.

"When I leave Ole Miss I want people to remember me as a good, kind, God-fearing man, who always tried to help people."