Mansfield University Athletic Hall of Fame
Rodney was a four-year starter (football) on the offensive line for the Mountaineers from1983-86. He was considered the anchor of the “O” line that allowed running back Robert Funderburk to gain a school record 2,611 yards over that period. He was the winner of 4 varsity letters and a co-captain in 1986. He was a 1st-Team All-PSAC East Selection in 1985 and 1986 and named to the Little All-American team in 1986. Respected by both peers and opponents, he was the first recipient of the Frank A. Butsko Award presented annually to the offensive lineman who most shows “loyalty to his peers and coaching staff and leadership through example on the gridiron.” He was a member and the Top Lifter on the 1,000 LB Club. October 1986 he was the Kiwanis Athlete of the Month and in the Street and Smith’s College Football Year Book it states that “the most effective play will be running behind the blocking of Guard, Rod Pursell.”
