National Football Foundation

At the top of his class and top of the field, Thomas Bemenderfer has certainly excelled in astounding ways. The 2005 Midwest Region High School Scholar Athlete has been honored countless times for his leadership, football and wrestling accomplishments and impeccable academic record. 

"I attempt to do my best in the classroom and in athletics. I use the same focus in the classroom as I use in sports," said Bemenderfer. "This is an extreme honor to receive such a prestigious award from the National Football Foundation." 

Earning valedictory honors in a class of 617, his amiable nature also garnered the Penn High School's Kingsman of the Year award, an honor chosen by the student body for the most respected and dedicated student. Bemenderfer has been an active member of his community through Big Brother/Big Sister programs and participation in the 4-H Club. He was granted the Kiwanis Leadership Award and induction to the National Honor Society and Foreign Language Honor Society throughout his years at Penn. 

Despite a rigorous academic and extracurricular schedule, Bemenderfer was able to devote more time and passion to football than the average student-athlete. As an astounding force on the offensive line, Bemenderfer earned All-State and All-Conference honors as offensive tackle his junior and senior years. He was also named Burger King Outstanding Student-Athlete, Indianapolis Colts Academic All-Star, State of Indiana High School Academic All-Star and was a Wendy's Heisman Award finalist. 

He was named to Indiana's "Tremendous 26" squad, Bloomington Herald's "Big 33" and South Bend Tribune's "Dream Team" as both a junior and senior. 

Bemenderfer's résumé of achievements can seem to go on forever, as does his display of superior character and personal zeal. His coaches at Northwestern have already noticed Thomas' uniqueness. 

"He seems like a quiet boy in character, pays attention to detail and is very respectful," said Northwestern Offensive Line Coach James Patton. "But on the field, he is extremely fired up with passion for the game. He will be a significant force on our team." 

Bemenderfer lettered on the Notre Dame football team and is currently an orthopedic surgeon in Charlotte, N.C.