ARDEN HILLS, Minn. – Looking back on the 2011-12 season, Bethel University athletics enjoyed a number of incredible achievements and accolades. Several teams made monumental runs to the postseason, while certain individuals amped up their play to become star performers. Additionally, the Royals made plenty of noise off the playing surface throughout the entire year. With all that said, we will look at the Top 10 stories of the 2011-12 school year for Bethel athletics over the next ten days (one each day). Today, however, will highlight the No. 9 moment in this year's Top 10.
 
2011-12 Top 10: No. 9
 
Football reaches highest achievements with All-Americans and new professionals
Following the conclusion of the 2011 Bethel University football season, several players were awarded with All-American honors for their play on the field and studies off the field.  Beginning first with those who were rewarded academically was seniors David Vavra and Josh Aakre. Vavra, a starting defensive back, balanced a 3.85 GPA while pursuing his degree in nursing. Meanwhile Aakre, a four-year quarterback, ended his collegiate career with a 3.69 GPA.
 
On the field were two who that garnered All-American accolades. The pair of athletes consisted of seniors Mitch Elliott and Billy Morgan. Elliott, a senior offensive lineman, was selected to the D3football.com All-American Honorable Mention team, while Billy Morgan, the team's leading tackler, was named to the D3PRODAY.com All-American First Team defense.
 
Furthermore, select players looked to continue their career on the gridiron and a two were highly successful. In March Josh Aakre signed a contract with the Osnabrück Tigers to play professional football in Germany. Later on, offensive lineman Mitch Elliott had the opportunity to work out with several NFL teams, however, decided to sign a contract with the Cedar Rapids Titans indoor football team.
 
The No. 8 moment will be announced tomorrow.