On a night when 12 seniors were honored, a junior took the big prize at the 96th Rotary Illinois football banquet.

Junior linebacker Danny Clark was named team most valuable player. He led the Illini with 115 tackles, including 10 for loss. Clark, also named outstanding defensive player, thanked the 12 departing seniors, then he looked ahead to the 1999 season.

"We're going to get some wins and make people happy," Clark said.

The banquet was held for the second consecutive year at the Illini Union ballroom with more than 600 in the crowd.

Lineman Ryan Schau was named outstanding offensive player. Steve Havard earned the special teams award.

Senior defensive tackle Garrett Johnson was given the Bruce Capel Award, named for the late former Illini.

Schau, Clark and Ivan Benson were named captains. Safety Mike Gusich gained the scholar-athlete award. Aaron Moorehead and Nolan Nawrocki received the scout team honors.

Rookies of the year were punter Steve Fitts, defensive lineman Brandon Moore and running back Rocky Harvey.

Senior defensive end Jeff Weisse won the first Wright Commitment to Excellence award, presented by former Illini John Wright Sr.

"I'd like to say this is the first and probably only academic award I'll win in my life," said Weisse, drawing the biggest laugh of the night.

Ex-Illini quarterback Tony Eason, who played eight seasons in the NFL, gained the Monsignor Duncan Award. Eason wasn't at the banquet but sent a video acceptance speech.