Winning your conference is a great experience. Going on to the national playoffs and representing Sam Houston is even better.
But what really tops off the season is when players are recognized on the national level. Zach Fry (Midfield) and Greg Kremen (Defense) were both named 3rd Team All American while John Messer (Defense) place on the Honorable Mention. Last year the team had just one on the All American list. The exposure in Denver at the nationals solidified the spots for these three. “Without Denver and these guys being seen by the other coaches on the Selection Committee, I wouldn’t have had much to negotiate with during the selection process” said Coach Fritts. Fritts is on the Selection Committee and elaborated on the process. “It (process) was great to be a part of. We all get a list of the nominees which came from all ten conferences around the country. If the nominee is there at nationals, each of us has a responsibility to scout him and see what he has. The Friday night before the championship game, we are on a two hour conference call voicing our opinions. It was a very respectful process and at times quite ‘open’ as far as opinions go. ”
The Academic All American is to Fritts the “Cream” of the Student/Athletes. “This is what we’re here for… an education first and if you can excel in the class room and on the field… my hat is off to all those who achieved this honor.” To qualify for the Academic All American honor, you must have a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher and have been selected to your Conference’s 1st or 2nd team. Doing just that are Zach Fry, John Messer, Donny Meyer and Nick Williams. Worth noting is Brendan Gawronski missed this honor by .01! “That’s how picky they are! They wouldn’t even round up .01 for Brendan. I’m sure he’ll get it next year! Either way, I’m very proud of all the young men here who have achieved national recognition.”
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