David Beaty: KU seniors deserved proper sendoff

Kansas senior running back De'Andre Mann (23) tries to take the ball outside as he is pursued by Kansas State sophomore defensive end Davis Clark (93) during the Sunflower Showdown game Saturday at Memorial Stadium.

Led by first-year head coach David Beaty, the Kansas University football program made sure to send its seniors out on a high note off the field during Saturday’s season finale, a 45-14 loss to rival Kansas State at Memorial Stadium.

In addition to the customary highlight video and player introductions that took place on the field a half-hour before kickoff, Beaty made a point to emphasize the importance and appreciation of these seniors, both before the game and again in the locker room following the loss.

“The lasting message was basically based for our seniors and their leadership that they provided us throughout the season,” Beaty said.

“It’s difficult when you go through a winless season. And there’s points in it where the team is kind of teetering one way or another,” the coach added. “Our team never really did that. It was amazing.

“Our seniors did such a good job of managing it, that it never got remotely close to that point. I was absolutely amazed, to be honest with you. I’ve been a part of some tough seasons, and I’ve seen it teeter, and it takes some real leadership to get it done. I believe our seniors really did a nice be job. We’re going to miss those guys for their leadership as much as anything. That was big.”

As a result, Beaty wanted to make sure KU paid tribute to the senior class.

“And the other thing is that the way we can pay tribute to them, and we talked about this, is by improving and giving them something better to talk about at the water cooler or with the team that they’re playing with next,” Beaty said. “They deserve better and we’re going to take those steps.”

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