The wait is over. Chris Chenault is in the UK Hall of Fame

Thank you UK. Thank you Mr. Barnhart. It’s with great pride and honor to announce that UK linebacker Chris Chenault will be inducted into the University of Kentucky Athletics’ Hall of Fame, Class of 2023. I can’t begin to express how happy this makes me and countless other former Cats. But, the moment belongs to Chris and his family. They are thrilled, as you can imagine. First, I thought I could share some background on the new honoree.

Chris Chenault grew up in Lexington. He attended Henry Clay High School in the early 1980s. He was a multi-sport star for the Blue Devils and led his team to a football state championship in 1981. Chenault was a national-level prospect before the star-system was invented. It’s safe to say that the diverse athlete would have been at least a four-star in today’s standards. Most all national football powers pursued the Lexington product. The list included Notre Dame, Michigan, Tennessee, Ohio State to name a few, but he was destined to be a Kentucky Wildcat and a hometown Hall of Famer.

Chris once told me the story regarding the moment that he decided to attend UK. On his return flight home from an official visit to Notre Dame, he could see the Lexington lights shining brightly from above his hometown. This elevated perspective also provided a fantastic view of Commonwealth Stadium. The picture outside his airplane window reminded the linebacker of just how close his home was to where he could eventually be playing college football. At that moment, future College Football Hall of Famer decided that he wanted to stay home and play for Coach Jerry Claiborne. The rest, including a career that produced 482 career tackles, was history.

I’ve lobbied for Chenault to be inducted into the UK Hall of Fame for many years. But, this is not the space for “It’s about time” rhetoric. The moment belongs to Chris and his family. The announcement also marks a proud occasion for the University of Kentucky. Honoring a worthy player is always a time for reflection and celebration.

Chris Chenault is known as a personable, compassionate, and trustworthy teammate and friend. He’s also recognized for his implausible, and at times sarcastic, sense of humor. He’s a famed storyteller. His recollection and way of wording awkward moments always brings out laughter from those around him. His keen memory of dormitory shenanigans and nights on the town also provoke fond memories of yesteryear. I can’t speak for all UK Football alumni, but this news will produce an overabundance of positive reviews. Chris is one of the most popular has-beens in program history and has many Big Blue friends.

Chris Chenault UK Athletics team photo — UK Athletics

Life after UK was also a successful journey for Chenault. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals but his pro career was cut short due to injuries. He later served in the Kentucky State Police and went on to retire from the organization following a courageous career serving his Commonwealth. I can only imagine that their ranks will also swell with pride regarding Chenault’s incredible honor. Chris also has a passion for giving back to the community. He’s extremely active in the Fayette County community and never declines those in need.

I’m so incredibly proud of my friend. I’m also proud of my alma mater and all that were involved in making the decision to hang No. 45’s jersey at Kroger Field. This well-deserved honor for the hometown kid that went on to become one of the best players to ever wear the blue and white means the absolute world to Chris. It also resonates with a plethora of former Wildcats that have always viewed Chenault one of the best ever and as a Hall of Famer. Now, it’s official and will be celebrated by the Big Blue Nation. I’m also confident that there will be a large contingent of former Cats that return to Lexington for the occasion.

I eagerly await the K-House celebration before, during, and after the game in which the inductees are presented on Kroger Field. Emotions and laughter will be high. Chris is normally behind the grill at the K-House cooking up burgers and dogs for former UK letter winners and their families. On that special occasion, I hope that we can cook for him and he’ll allow us to share in his special night and merited place in Kentucky Football history.

Chris Chenault is a Hall of Famer. Go Cats!