Leonard James Russell II

Leonard James Russell II C/O 1987: Most Memorable LBP Football Experience: "Scoring a touchdown to tie Edison in the Championship".

Leonard James Russell II has accomplished many athletic feats and garnered repeated recognition for his stellar abilities, so much so, that he has been called a Master Athlete. Leonard Russell was born on November 17, 1969 in Long Beach, CA. Those who know Russell from his days a Jackrabbit affectionately call him 8-Ball, a moniker that draws vivid memories of his triumphs on the field when mentioned in the Poly football community.

By the time he graduated from LB Poly in 1987, Russell had solidified his role as one of the greatest players to ever play grace a green and gold jersey. As a junior Russell was names Team MVP and Moore League Offensive Player of the Year.

As a senior, Russell was recognized for outstanding accomplishment with awards such as the 1987 Gatorade National Player of the Year, Big 5 All CIF 1st Team, Moore League Player of the Year, and Herald Examiner Player of the Year. Russell's distinction as Los Angeles Herald Examiner Player of the Year was achieved after he received the most votes in the history of the award. With the plethora of high school athletic achievements received during his junior and senior years as a Jackrabbit, it is not surprise that Russell was named one of the Top 10 Best in the West.

After graduating from Poly, Russell attended Mt. Sac Junior college where he continued to prove his stellar athletic ability. Russell was named Jr. College All American for two consecutive years (1988-1989) and was inducted into the Jr. College Hall of Fame. In 1990 Russell transferred to Arizona State where he was celebrated as Pac 10 New Comer of the year and Arizona State MVP. After a successful collegiate career, Russell was a 1st round pick in the 1991 draft. As the 14th pick of the New England Patriots, Russell was the first Running Back selected. In keeping with his superior athletic prowess, Russell was designated 1991 NFL Rookie of the Year and lead all rookie RB’s in rushing. In 1993 Russell ran for over 1000 yards, was selected as a Pro Bowl alternative, and was the second leading rusher in the AFC.

After retiring from the NFL, Russell focused his determination toward making the community around him a better place. He lives his life by the Optimist Creed "To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best." Russell is affiliated with organizations such as the NFL Alumni "Caring for Kids", Unforgettable, an organization that helps families bury their loved ones, Optimist Club, and Say Yes to Life. Russell very instrumental in LB Poly Coach Don Norford's selection as NFL Coach of the Year. Russell is currently the Director of Training for Adrenaline Athletic Training. He resides in Riverside, CA with his wife of 16 years, Tasha and his three children. For his proven mastery of athletics and his fierce determination to be the BEST, we are proud to induct Leonard James Russell II into the LB Poly Football Hall of Fame.

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