Ferris Football Roster: A Shining Star in NCAA Division II
The Ferris Football team has been making waves in the NCAA Division II with a roster that boasts talent, depth, and a winning mentality. With a strong commitment to developing young players and a focus on community engagement, the Bulldogs are rapidly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC).
A Look at the Roster
The 2022 Ferris Football roster is a testament to the team's dedication to player development. With a mix of seasoned veterans and fresh talent, the Bulldogs are well-equipped to take on the best teams in the conference. The roster features 77 players, including 20 seniors, 20 juniors, and 37 newcomers.
Offensive Strengths
One of the key drivers of the Bulldogs' success has been their potent offense. Led by quarterback Jared Bernhardt, who has thrown for over 2,000 yards and 20 touchdowns this season, the Ferris offense is a force to be reckoned with. Backed by a strong stable of running backs, including Abraham Papazian and Henry Yantes, the Bulldogs have been able to assert their dominance on the ground.
- Jared Bernhardt (QB): 2,538 passing yards, 26 touchdowns
- Abraham Papazian (RB): 797 rushing yards, 7 touchdowns
- Henry Yantes (RB): 741 rushing yards, 5 touchdowns
"We've got a lot of guys who can make big plays for us," said Bulldogs Head Coach Tony Annese. "Our quarterback, Jared, has been doing a great job of leading the team and making smart decisions on the field."
Defensive Depth
While the offense has been making headlines, the Ferris defense has been quietly doing its job. With a mix of seasoned veterans and young talent, the Bulldogs have been keeping opponents at bay. Led by defensive end Bruce Tranquilli, who has recorded 44 tackles and 8 sacks this season, the Ferris defense is a formidable unit.
- Bruce Tranquilli (DE): 44 tackles, 8 sacks
- Eric Enstrom (LB): 57 tackles, 3 interceptions
- Gavin Thompson (S): 25 tackles, 2 interceptions
"Our defense has been playing great football," said Coach Annese. "We've got a lot of guys who can step up and make big plays. We're confident in our ability to hold opponents to a moderate score."
Ferris Football's Community Commitment
One of the hallmarks of the Ferris Football program has been its commitment to community engagement. The team has been actively involved in a number of charity initiatives, including a partnership with the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization. The team has also been working with the Ferris State University's athletic department to promote health and wellness in the surrounding community.
"We're not just about winning football games," said Coach Annese. "We're about being a positive influence in the community and building relationships with people who share our values."
Conclusion
The Ferris Football roster is a shining example of what it means to be a team that is committed to excellence, not just on the field, but in the community. With its strong mix of talent, depth, and dedication, this Bulldogs team is sure to continue making waves in NCAA Division II for years to come. As Coach Annese said, "We're not just building a team, we're building a family. And that's something special."
