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Aikman picks up UCLA degree 21 years later

Hall of Fame quarterback joins 450 other graduates in ceremony

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updated 8:50 p.m. ET June 13, 2009

LOS ANGELES - Hall of Fame quarterback Troy Aikman has graduated from UCLA 21 years after starring for the Bruins.

Aikman participated in Saturday’s graduation ceremony on the Westwood campus along with 450 other graduates. He earned his sociology degree earlier this year, having left college as the No. 1 pick in the 1989 NFL draft by the Dallas Cowboys.

He was mobbed with requests for pictures with his fellow graduates and received a loud cheer when his name was read while receiving his diploma.

“I’m glad I came back and went through the ceremony,” Aikman said. “I had some reservations because I didn’t really know any of the other students, but I had a great time and it brought back a lot of great memories of my time here. UCLA is a great place and I’m glad to be a part of it.”

Aikman was joined by his wife Rhonda, two of his daughters, his mother and one of his sisters.

He quarterbacked UCLA to a 20-4 record during the 1987 and 1988 seasons. He later was enshrined both the college and pro football halls.

Also in cap and gown was current Bruins quarterback Kevin Craft, who will graduate after fall quarter.

© 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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