Wittenbach, Simons Tabbed As All-America Golf Scholars

Big Rapids, Mich. - Two members of this past year's Ferris State University men's golf team have been tabbed as Cleveland Golf/Srixon All-America Scholars, according to a recent announcement made by the Golf Coaches Association of America.

The Bulldogs' Kyle Wittenbach and Garrett Simons, who were both seniors on the 2011-12 team, were among the All-America Scholar selections for their efforts both on the course and in the classroom.

A total of 153 players at the NCAA Division I level along with 54 in Division II and 14 from NAIA schools earned the prestigious honor.

To be eligible for Cleveland Golf/Srixon All-America Scholar status, an individual must be a junior or senior academically, compete in at least three full years at the collegiate level, participate in at least 70 percent of his team's competitive rounds or compete in the NCAA Championships.  They must also have a stroke average under 76.0 in Division I, 78.0 in Division II, 77.0 in NAIA and 79.0 in Division III, and maintain a minimum cumulative grade-point average of 3.2 or higher. A recipient must also be of high moral character and be in good standing at his college or university.

In addition to their individual accolades, Wittenbach and Simons also helped the Bulldog men's golf team claim Division II Golf Coaches Association of America All-Academic Team accolades. The Bulldogs are among only 14 Division II teams across the country to receive the honor and one of only two Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) institutions along with Ohio Dominican.

The Bulldog men's golf squad made its 10th consecutive NCAA Regional Tournament appearance in a row this past season under head coach Mike Mignano. FSU placed tied for 10th at the 2012 NCAA Division II Midwest/South Central Super Regional (May 7-9) held in Jefferson City, Mo.

FSU placed sixth or beter in all four of its fall tournaments in 2011-12. The Bulldogs had three top-three tourney finishes and were among the top 10 squads in seven spring outings, including the super regional tournament.

Wittenbach earned a trip to the national championships be being one of the top two finishers not associated with a qualifying team at the super regional. Meanwhile, Simons was chosen as an All-GLIAC Second Team recipient for the 2011-12 season.