Someone has to lead the way in anything, and Weldon Edwards was the leader of the pack at the University of Richmond.

Following a brilliant football and track and field career at Maggie L. Walker High School, Edwards became UR’s first African-American football player in 1970.

On Feb. 18, before an excited crowd of family, friends and former Spider teammates, Edwards was honored by the Virginia House of Delegates for his trailblazing effort at the private university. He was given a standing ovation by all in attendance.

Introducing the proclamation to honor Edwards was his former UR teammate, Delegate John Avoli of Staunton, who represents the 20th House District.

Edwards had all the physical tools to be a star college player, and even an NFL prospect. However he was unable to fulfill his potential at UR due to a crippling knee injury.

Still, he competed as a running back and defensive back for UR and later served as an assistant coach.

As an adult, Edwards has starred in softball and flag football. For the last 14 years he has been a salesman for The Auto Connection.