2016 football scores boast excellence in MIAA

Ichabods Recover: Ichabods take the ball away from the Lions.

Antony Furse

The athletic accomplishments achieved by Washburn’s sport teams so far this year are nothing short of incredible, and the football team is no exception to this.

The team, led by head coach Craig Schurig, had many notable achievements and recognitions this season.

Perhaps the first achievement would be the Ichabod’s winning season. The football team boasted a 7-5 record overall, with a 7-4 conference record. Their seven wins includes a nail-biting 16-13 victory on homecoming day over the Missouri Western State University Griffons.

Following their regular season play, the Ichabods got an opportunity to compete in the post-season. The team also played in the Mineral Water Bowl in Excelsior Springs, Missouri.

The Mineral Bowl had its start over 60 years ago as a post-season matchup of two high school teams before transitioning to a small collegiate bowl.

The Ichabods appeared in the bowl Dec. 3 to represent the MIAA where they faced the Bemidji State Beavers in a 36-23 game. This was their first bowl appearance since the 2004 season.

A few individual Ichabods received honorable notoriety this season. Among these are Cody Heiman, Michael Miller and Perry Schmiedeler.

Heiman, senior linebacker, was chosen as a member of the Don Hansen Football NCAA Division II All-Regional team as a second team selection. He also was selected to play in the 2017 College Gridiron Showcase game that took place in Bedford, Texas.

Michael Miller, senior offensive lineman, was also selected to play in the showcase game. Perry Schmiedeler, sophomore placekicker/punter received the honor of making the Don Hansen Football NCAA Division II All-Regional team as a third team kicker.

The 2016 season for the Ichabods football team was filled with victories, a few losses, and great team and individual achievements.

As they prepare for the next season ahead, we will wait and see what the 2017 Ichabods football season will bring.