BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (WCIA) — After an ACL injury cut Central quarterback George Rouse’s senior season short, he put on his Maroons helmet for one last time, despite initially signing with Wofford.

Rouse made a return to the field during the 51st annual Shrine Game in Bloomington on Saturday, where he tested his knee by playing in his first game since last fall.

“I was pretty nervous, honestly, until the first play, but once I made a cut on my knee one time, I was good,” Rouse said.

He also threw a touchdown pass in the all-star game, capping off a fun week in style.

Fisher set to join Lincoln Prairie Conference, AD explains why

“This is really meaningful to me,” Rouse expressed. “I would have loved to play all nine games with my teammates, but wearing the C on my helmet out here was significant.” He continued, “The game was fantastic, I met amazing friends, some from nearby that I didn’t know well before. It was a great experience, especially since it supports a good cause, making the week truly special.”

Rouse was a three-time captain with the Maroons, throwing for 1,200 yards and 12 touchdowns as a junior.