Seven University of St. Francis football players were recently named NAIA Scholar-Athletes for the 2009 season. In addition, senior wide receiver Jason Fiske (Belvidere H.S./Loves Park, IL) was recognized as an ESPN/CoSIDA Academic All-District honoree.

USF's contingent of NAIA Scholar-Athletes included five seniors and two juniors. In addition to Fiske, the seniors are center Marc Novak (Marian Catholic H.S./St. John, IN), quarterback John Goolsby (Morris H.S./Morris, IL), linebacker Dan Heimerdinger (Richards H.S./Oak Lawn, IL) and defensive back Pat Flynn (Aquin Central Catholic H.S./Freeport, IL). The other two honorees are linebackers Wade Ferm (Lincoln-Way Central H.S./New Lenox, IL) and Michael Barry (Providence Catholic H.S./New Lenox, IL).

Requirements for NAIA Scholar-Athlete recognition are a 3.5 or better grade point average and a junior or senior academic standing.

Fiske earned the ESPN/CoSIDA recognition after a vote of sports information directors around the country. He earned All-District honors in the College Division, which encompasses NCAA Divisions II and III and all NAIA schools. Requirements for that award are a 3.30 grade point average, a minimum of a sophomore standing academically and earning starter or key player status on his/her team.