
Dennis Price C/O 1983: Most Memorable LBP Football Experience: "Moving to free safety (the position I wanted to play) before the Banning game. I made a bunch of tackles and big hits in that game and knew that I'd found my niche."
Dennis Price has a quiet humble demeanor but the confidence and athletic ability of a star, so it's fitting that Price is hailed as one of the most notable Champions and Scholars to grace the field as a Jackrabbit. Born on June 14, 1965, it was Price's humble demeanor that initially made him apprehensive to play the sport that would solidify his position as one of Jackrabbit footballs greatest.
After initially foregoing an opportunity to play football at Poly, Price joined the team late in his sophomore year. After playing wide receiver in the first two games, Price was moved to free safety, the position that would showcase his talent and skill as an athlete. As a senior Price was named team Co-Captain and selected 1st Team All City, 1st Team All Moore League, 1st Team LA Times All South Coast, 1st Team All CIF Big-5 Conference, and Press-Telegram Best in the West. He was also selected to play in the Shrine All-Star game, and received designation as a National Football Foundation Scholar/Athlete, Army/ROTC Scholar/Athlete, and LB Century Club Football Honoree. In addition to his numerous designations as a high school athlete, Price was also recognized for his academic success. He received Pursuit of Excellence Awards in Spanish and Chemistry when he graduated with High Honors (3.56 GPA) in 1983.
After graduating from Poly, Price attended UCLA where he continued to captivate football fans with his impressive athletic prowess. During his career as a UCLA Bruin he was named 1984 Defensive MVP vs. USC, and was a two time Rose Bowl Champion ('84 & '86). As a senior at UCLA he received recognition for UCLA All Around Excellence and was named 2nd Team All Pac-10, Honorable Mention All-American, and Defensive MVP of the Hula Bowl. Price graduated from UCLA with a Bachelors degree in Economics.
In 1988 Price was the 5th round draft pick of the Los Angeles Raiders and tied as the team leader in interceptions. After a mid-season trade to the New York Jets in 1990, Price went on to play through the 1992 season after overcoming reconstructive knee surgery. Price is currently a LBPD Police Officer. He spends his spare time giving back to the community through organizations such as the Inland Empire Junior All-American Football League, Bishop Amat High Freshman Football Team, USA Track & Field Association, and Help Public Service Foundation.
Price currently resides in Inland Empire, CA with his wife of 19 years, Letitia and his two children.
Both of Price's children are athletes as well, his daughter Kylie plays volleyball and runs track while his son Sheldon is set to attend UCLA on a track scholarship in the fall. For his humble demeanor, quiet confidence, and dedication to community, we are proud to induct Dennis Price into the LB Poly Football Hall of Fame.