Hall of Fame
Mr. Excitement from the very beginning of his West Georgia career is an understated way of describing Denarius Appling's accomplishments. He was the most prolific punt return specialist ever at West Georgia. His school records include most yards, most touchdowns, and highest average yardage per return. He shares the UWG record for the longest kickoff return in school history, coming on November 8, 2014 against GSC opponent Florida Tech, with the return stretching the length of the field. Appling was a three-time All-GSC selection and as a senior, he earned All-Region and All-America honors while leading UWG to the semifinal round of the NCAA Division II Playoffs. He was voted a First Team member of the GSC All-Decade Team and a member of the UWG Football All-Decade Team as well. For his career, Appling had eight touchdown returns, including six on punts. His final one was the most dramatic, a 59-yard touchdown return that iced the 2014 NCAA Super Region Championship game at Valdosta State.Â
