University of North Carolina Athletics
1963 Gator Bowl Reunion
October 3, 2003 | Football
Oct. 3, 2003
Chapel Hill, N.C. ----- This weekend marks the 40-year reunion of the 1963 Gator Bowl Team. Members of the team held a reception at the Wyndham Hotel in the RTP on Friday evening and will be recognized at halftime of today's game against Virginia.
In 1963, Carolina finished 9-2 overall and shared the ACC title with NC State. Playing in its first bowl game since the Charlie Justice Era (1947-50), the Tar Heels whipped Air Force in the Gator Bowl, 35-0. Carolina's only losses that season were at Michigan State and at home to Clemson.
Several players earned first-team All-ACC honors, including end Bob Lacey, halfback Ken Willard, center Chris Hanburger and quarterback Junior Edge. Lacey led the ACC in receiving in 1963 and was named first-team All-America. He was one of the eight new jerseys that was honored at halftime of the Florida State game earlier this year.
