Five Panthers recognized for off-field success with Scholar-Athlete honors

ORANGE, Calif. - The Chapman University football team continues to receive off-field recognitions as five players were named Scholar Athletes by the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame at their 43rd annual banquet hosted by the Orange County chapter.

Seniors Michael Mehlhaff, Kevin Anderson, Kellen Matsuno, Elliot Cooley and junior Cameron Cutter received the honor, continuing a three-year streak of having at least four Panthers named Scholar-Athletes by the organization. A total of 31 Chapman players have been named Scholar-Athletes since 2001.

Mehlhaff, a two time Capital One Academic All-District VII selection, had a GPA of 3.953 while majoring in business. The linebacker tied for the team-lead and ranked in the conference top-10 with 71 tackles on his way to an All-SCIAC first team selection. He also collected four pass break ups, two fumble recoveries and an interception for the Panthers.

Cutter, a defensive back, earned a GPA of 3.526. He led the team and ranked second in the SCIAC with five interceptions and ranked fourth on the team with 35 tackles.

Anderson, a four-year starter, captained a defense that finished second in the conference against the run, while collecting nine tackles. He was recognized for a 3.588 GPA.

Cooley and Matsuno, an All-SCIAC second-team member, also received Scholar-Athlete honors. Linebacker Matsuno, a Health Sciences major, has a 3.364 GPA and tied for the team-lead at 71 tackles this season. Defensive lineman Cooley collected nine tackles and two sacks for the Panthers, while holding a 3.959 GPA.

To qualify for this award, a student athlete has to carry a 3.3 grade-point average or higher. The National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame, Inc. is a member-supported, non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring the future of amateur football at the local, state and national levels. Since its beginnings in 1947, the Foundation has relied upon the support of volunteers to bring its mission and goals to communities all across the nation and now has more than 12,000 members and 120 chapters nationwide.

by Bogart Avila
Sports Information Intern

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