Brandstatter, Niles wrestlers named Academic All-State
Published 8:35 pm Tuesday, March 25, 2008
By By SCOTT NOVAK / Niles Daily Star
NILES – Senior Ben Brandstatter has been named Academic All-State by the Michigan Wrestling Association.
The Viking varsity wrestling team was also named Academic All-State for the 2007-08 season.
"It's a nice honor being named to the Academic All-State team," first-year Niles coach Todd Hesson said. "I am very proud of our kids. It is a result of a great work ethic and discipline. It is also a credit to their parents. I also think it reflects their priorities. Competition is great, but their future is often determined by education."
Brandstatter was joined on the team by Decatur's Robert Hall. From the Big 16 Conference West Division, Mattawan's Nick Brazeau and Nick Ballard, along with Andrew Block of Battle Creek Lakeview.
"Typical Ben Brandstatter," Hesson added. "He excels in three sports, is a two-time Division 2 state qualifier and now Academic All-State. He's just a fantastic kid, a coach's dream.
"I think many of his contributions are overlooked because it's just 'expected' of him. He helped the kids with homework, checked on their progress in the classroom and he is a tremendous leader in the practice room. He will be a success at whatever he does. I will miss him."
The Big 16 was also represented by Kalamazoo Central on the Academic All-State team listing.