The Cougars held their last full practice this afternoon before their season opener in two days.

Thursday's Hero

Today the team honored Alva Hunter, an 86-year-old man from American Fork who suffers from primary lateral sclerosis, a disease which causes gradual deterioration of the body's nerves and muscles.

Defensive lineman Russell Tialavea presented Alva with a bag of BYU gifts, saying, "We respect you and know that what you go through every day is much harder than what we go through."

Team captain Jan Jorgensen then asked Alva to sign the team flag which has been carried out before every game each of the past five seasons.

"This flag symbolizes our commitment to our university, faith and everything BYU stands for," said the senior defensive lineman.