Jan 22, 2026

Wheaton football program recognizes award winners at 2025 season banquet

Wheaton, Ill. -- Following an impressive campaign that saw the team win 11 games, reach the NCAA Division III Quarterfinals, and finish the year with a #7 ranking in both the AFCA and D3football.com national polls, the Thunder football program recently held its annual banquet to celebrate the 2025 season and hand out special accolades to a number of its student-athletes. In total, six awards were given to eight players for their contributions to Wheaton's success last fall.

The Most Valuable Player award was given to senior quarterback Mark Forcucci, who was recognized as a Gagliardi Trophy semifinalist, D3football.com Second Team All-Region, and First Team All-CCIW honoree in 2025.

The James Parmalee Most Respected Player award went to senior running back Trent Gabriele.

The John Henry Hammer award was awarded to senior tight end and fullback Riley Howard, who was a Second Team All-Conference member this season.

The J.R. Bishop Scholar-Athlete award was given to senior defensive back Joseph Bracy, who was also named to the All-CCIW Second Team and was recognized as a CSC Academic All-District honoree for 2025.

The Special Teams Player of the Year honor was awarded to junior punter Josiah Smith, who became Wheaton's first-ever D3football.com All-American punter as well as a First Team All-Region and Second Team All-CCIW honoree this year.

The Scout Team Players of the Year for the 2025 season were freshman wide receiver Jake Weston, freshman defensive lineman Chase Jennings, and freshman defensive back/special teams player Hudson Gutwein.

After reflecting on a memorable season, the Thunder will look ahead to their spring training camp in March and will kick off the 2026 campaign at McCully Stadium on Saturday, September 5th with a 1 PM contest against University of Mount Union.Print Friendly Version