THIBODAUX – Nicholls State University senior punter Patrick Dolan has accepted an invitation to play in the inaugural Dixie Gridiron Classic, which will be held in St. George, Utah, on Saturday, February 5.

Dolan, who was named First-Team All-Southland three times while at Nicholls, will participate in the collegiate All-Star Bowl game with players from major BCS conferences such as the SEC, Big 10, Pac-10, Big East, and Big 12. The event will allow players to showcase their skills in front of NFL scouts during the game as well as in practices throughout the week.

The Dixie Gridiron Classic will be held at Desert Hills High School in St. George, Utah. Kickoff for the game is scheduled for 11 a.m CST. For more information, visit the official website at www.dixiegridironclassic.com.

Dolan had a stellar senior season for the Colonels, ranking sixth in punting in the FCS with a 43.2 average. He racked up over 2,700 yards for the season and leaves Nicholls with a program-best 43.1 yard average.

Not only did Dolan perform on the field, but was recently named 2010 Southland Conference football student athlete of the year. The Mobile, Ala. native was a three-time Southland all-academic honoree and is currently attending graduate school.