Behind The Facemask: Kayaune Ross

Perseverance- steadfastness in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.

Pronounced KAY-waun; Ross’ size and speed have at times overwhelmed Kentucky’s elite pass defenders in the red zone during fall camp. The 6’6, 230-pound receiver has practiced his way in the game-day rotation. Originally hailing from Lakota West, his voyage to Lexington has been a long and complicated homecoming of sorts as he reunited former Firebirds Kyle Meadows, Mikel Horton, and George Asafo-Adjei. After graduation Ross crossed the nation for two long years at Phoenix College. His time there was humbling. An injury led to a redshirt season in 2015. While at the time the situation seemed disastrous. However, the missed season abetted Ross in having three years of eligibility at UK instead of the normal two which is common following a stay at junior college. Perserverence.

In the video you’ll see a hungry and modest young man who appears extremely thankful for his opportunity in Lexington.

For the past two seasons Kentucky has needed Dorian Baker and Blake Bone to be its primary pass catching threats in the zed-zone. The duo’s production has been inconsistent at best. Ross scored three touchdowns in 11-on-11 fall camp scrimmages. After meeting the confident yet soft spoken young man I would have a difficult time ever doubting him as a person or football player.

Perseverance- steadfastness in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.