Nov. 14, 2003

Columbia, Mo. - University of Missouri senior center A.J. Ricker (Klein, Texas) has accepted an invitation to play in the 2004 Hula Bowl after the conclusion of the season, as announced today by the Hula Bowl Foundation.

Ricker, who is the anchor of MU's offensive line that has Mizzou ranked 11th nationally in rushing yards (220.89 ypg), will represent Missouri in the game, which is set for Jan. 17, 2004 in Maui.

Ricker, a pre-season candidate for the Rimington Award and All-American honors, will be the 41st Tiger to play in the prestigious all-star game. Recent Tigers to play in the contest included TE Dwayne Blakley and OL Mike Hayes, who both played in the 2002 contest.

For more information, please visit www.hulabowlmaui.com.