AUSTIN, Tex. -- A Mid-States Football Association first team all-conference distinction and a 3.82 cumulative grade point average has resulted in University of St. Francis junior defensive lineman Pat Strocchia being named to the 2024 College Sports Communicators (CSC) NAIA Academic All-America Football First Team.  The CSC made the announcement on Tuesday afternoon.

A total of 27 individuals garnered the recognition.  Strocchia, a Values-Based Management major, was one of five defensive linemen to earn first-team accolades.

A two-time all-league selection, thus far, in his career, Strocchia was a key piece to the St. Francis defensive unit which placed second in league rankings in points per game allowed (20.9) and the No. 4 position in total yards per game (334.3), passing yards per game (200.5) and rushing yards per game allowed (133.8).

Strocchia finished fourth in the league in total sacks (7), while placing second on his team in assisted tackles (26) among 47 total stops.  The junior defensive end also placed second in yards lost on tackles (47).  His other numbers included three pass breakups, four quarterback hurries, 21 solo tackles and one forced fumble.

The award is the fourth such honor for Strocchia this year.  Along with being named a MFSA first team all-conference selection, he was awarded NAIA Scholar-Athlete accolades last month.  He also earned a spot on the CSC All-District squad along with teammates Sam Tumilty, Joey Tumilty, Nick Mabutas, Curtis Reeves, Marcello Bernardi, Rylan Heersink and Jason Hartsfield on Jan. 8.

To be eligible for the CSC recognition, a student-athlete must hold a 3.50-or-higher grade point average and be a starter or important reserve.

St. Francis went 7-3 on the season, while placing third overall in the conference with a 3-2 record.

For the full release, go to CSC.

You can keep up with everything happening around USF Athletics on X @USFSaints.