CLARION, Pa. -- Mercyhurst College seniors
Dave Hetrick and
Josh Szeluga have been named to the 2009 Don Hansen's Football Gazette All-Super Region I Third Team.
This is the eighth-year that Football Gazette has selected NCAA Division II All-Region teams. The national publication has selected NCAA Division II All-America teams since 1988.
The Super Region 1 (formerly Northeast Region) is comprised of universities from four conferences including the PSAC, WVIAC, NE-10 and the CIAA. A total of 108 players representing 38 universities are represented on the team..
Hetrick, a senior offensive tackle from Northfield, Ohio, is a two-time First Team All-PSAC West selection. His strong blocking helped pave the way for the Lakers ground game that averaged 120.7 yards per game and a passing game that averaged 157.2 yards per contest. Hetrick began his career as a defensive lineman before switching to offense in 2007.
Szeluga had one of his best seasons at the ‘Hurst to finish his storied career in fourth-place all-time for receptions (117) and sixth-place for receiving yards (1,391). This season, Szeluga was a consistent and reliable target for Laker quarterbacks, hauling in a team-best 44 catches for 497 yards while ranking second with three touchdown receptions. Against Wayne State in the opener, Szeluga posted six catches for 100 yards in a preview of what would be a recurring theme in the Lakers offense. He had at least two catches in every game and recorded four games with 50 or more yards receiving. Against nationally-ranked Edinboro and California, Szeluga combined for 13 catches and 126 yards and two touchdowns. A versatile and an athletic receiver, Szeluga also added strength to the Lakers blocking scheme. Also excelling in the classroom, Szeluga was a CoSIDA/ESPN The Magazine All-District II selection and was on the national ballot for Academic All-America honors. Additionally, he played in the Valero Cactus Bowl.
The Lakers finished the 2009 season with a 4-7 overall mark, including a 3-4 record against teams from the PSAC Western Division.