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Ike Hilliard Retires As A Giant, Starts Coaching Career

August 3, 2010 - United Football League (UFL 1)
Florida Tuskers News Release


Last Friday, Florida Tuskers wide receivers coach Ike Hilliard signed a one-day contract with the New York Giants. The ceremonial contract was to allow Hilliard the opportunity to file his retirement papers as a New York Giants player.

"It was a no-brainer for me," the 34-year-old Hilliard told YAHOO! News. "I think I gave it a great effort, my best effort I should say, every day for my 12-year career. You know, being a Giant was obviously more special to me than anything in my professional career, with no disrespect to my four years in Tampa. If I didn't have my start there, I wouldn't have been a part of a great organization and playing with a number of great ballplayers and being able to play for the Mara family and the Tisch family."

Hilliard played in 98 games with 92 starts for the Giants from 1997-2004. He ranks eighth in team history with 4,630 yards receiving and is tied for 11th with 27 touchdowns catches. He had eight 100-yard games. Including his four seasons with the Bucs, Hilliard finished his NFL career with 6,397 yards on 546 receptions and 35 touchdowns.

During his time in Tampa Bay, Hilliard became friendly with Jay Gruden, who was an offensive assistant with the Bucs and would later become offensive coordinator with the Tuskers. After the 2008 NFL season, Hilliard used that connection to land a position on the Tusker staff as a volunteer assistant on the Tuskers staff, where he helped coach receivers.

When Gruden became the team's head coach in March, he elevated Hilliard to the position of wide receivers coach.

"I know Ike is really excited about this opportunity and I know he'll go a great job for us," Gruden said. "One of the things that struck me about Ike when he was playing for the Bucs was his professionalism. His knowledge of the position, as well as his work ethic, made him an outstanding football player. That same knowledge and work ethic will make him an outstanding coach."

Hilliard earned first-team All-America honors at wide receiver with the University of Florida. He caught 126 passes for 2,214 yards and 26 touchdowns from 1994-96. In the BCS National Championship Game against Florida State, Hilliard caught seven passes for 150 yards and three touchdowns in helping lead the Gators to a 52-20 win and Florida's first national title.



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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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