Cincinnati Bearcats running back Charles McClelland (10) runs for a 76 yard touchdown reception in the second quarter of the American Athletic Conference game between the Cincinnati Bearcats and the Southern Methodist Mustangs at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas on Saturday, Oct. 22, 2022. Cincinnati Bearcats At Southern Methodist Mustangs 458 — © Albert Cesare/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK

Charles McClelland, Mason Fletcher Meet With Media Ahead of UCF Bout

The duo were key parts in UC's 19th-straight AAC victory.

Author:
Russ Heltman
Updated:
Oct 25, 2022 5:43 PM EDT

CINCINNATI — UC punter Mason Fletcher and running back Charles McClelland were crucial in UC's 29-27 win over SMU and they went in-depth on those outings on Tuesday.

Check out some of the best quotes from the specialist and offensive weapon.

On Fickell and Mason’s close relationship

“We have a super close relationship, I spent Christmas with the Fickell’s and other Holidays as well. He is pretty much the reason I wanted to come play here because I do not think there are too many or any teams in America where the head coach, coaches the punt team. We always have a good laugh with each other, and I enjoy our close relationship.”

Mason Fletcher

On Christmas at the Fickell house (he was Landon Fickell’s roommate):

“It is awesome, I did Christmas at the Fickell’s and the Hoying's. A lot of love getting spread around, and they treat me like one of their own, so I really cannot complain about it. Mrs. Fickell treats me like one of her own, I also believe that has played a huge role in me not feeling one ounce of homesickness. I have not been home yet and honestly; I have not felt the need to. She also gives good presents and makes really good food.”

On Fickell At Home Versus Fickell At Work:

“He reminds me of my dad, my dad played 20 years in the league back at home, so I know all about professional sport and what it takes to be a successful professional athlete. So, I can Coach Fickell here and him at home, I get to see him just be a dad and a friend. Obviously more relaxed at home, which you can afford to be at home. It was nice at Christmas, seeing him in a different element. It reminded me a lot of my dad because everyone saw my dad in the league and then to see him go back home and be a normal human it is awesome."

On Celebrating Fickell's record-breaking win:

“It was awesome in the locker room after the game, we might not have won the way we wanted to but stuff like that is special. He has just done everything this program needed and a lot of people were probably nervous at the beginning but has been everything and more. I think when he has a relationship like he does with his players, it is not just a coach-player relationship it is a personal relationship. I think that just means so much more for everyone else, it was just a really proud moment for a lot of guys.”