UNIVERSITY PARK -- During his National Signing Day press conference, SMU head coach Sonny Dykes announced that he will be starting a new program at SMU called "Life After Ball."

The program's purpose is to set players up to make a smooth transition to the workforce after their playing days at SMU are over.

"It's designed to get our student-athletes ready to enter the job place with practical experience," said Dykes, who instituted a similar system when he was the head coach at Cal.

Former SMU quarterback Ramon Flanigan will head up the program in addition to his role as director of former player relations. Flanigan will be tasked with connecting student-athletes to SMU alumni who can offer job and internship opportunities.

"It's about exposing our kids to real-life work experiences and opportunities for them to create meaningful relationships with alumni and people in the community," Dykes explained. "I think it can be very meaningful for our players and a big bonus for us in recruiting."

Twitter: @AdamGrosbard