Three Navy sprint football players鈥擪erry Johnson, John Sheddy, and Jake Wolinski鈥攚ere recognized as members of the National Football Foundation (NFF) Hampshire Honor Society for maintaining a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher. Established in 2007, the Honor Society celebrates its 20th anniversary this year and includes a record 2,596 players from 365 schools in 2026, emphasizing academic excellence across college football. Their inclusion highlights the growing acknowledgment of sprint football, which was added to the program in 2021. This honor places these athletes among a prestigious group of over 23,000 student-athletes recognized over the years, showcasing their commitment to academics alongside athletics. Navy鈥檚 honorees join a notable roster of previous awardees from their institution.

By the Numbers
  • 2,596 players recognized in the 2026 Hampshire Honor Society, the largest class in history.
  • 3 Navy players named this year, adding to a list of previous honorees from the school.
State of Play
  • The NFF Hampshire Honor Society celebrates 20 years, evolving to include sprint football since 2021.
  • Recognition reflects the growing academic success in college football across all divisions.
What's Next

The ongoing expansion of the Hampshire Honor Society may lead to increased participation from sprint football teams and institutions, fostering even greater academic recognition for athletes. Additionally, this acknowledgment could inspire current and future athletes to prioritize their academic performance alongside their athletic commitments.

Bottom Line

The inclusion of Navy's players in the NFF Hampshire Honor Society signifies a vital blend of academic achievement and athletic commitment, underscoring the importance of maintaining high academic standards in sports. This recognition not only honors the individual athletes but also elevates the status of sprint football as a competitive and academically rigorous program.