Hobart senior Brian Monaco was recently named to the 2009 ESPN The Magazine Academic All-District I first team. It is the third consecutive season he has been so honored.

A biology major, Monaco is a Dean's List student, a Druid (Hobart's senior class honor society), and a member of the Chimera (junior class) and Orange Key (sophomore class) honor societies. Earlier this season, the National Football Foundation named him one of the 154 semifinalists for the 2009 William V. Campbell Trophy, which recognizes exceptional academic accomplishment, outstanding football ability, and strong leadership and citizenship.

“Brian's academic success demonstrates his commitment and investment in the learning process,” said Kristy Kenyon, an assistant professor of biology. “His actions often inspire those around him to rise to his level of engagement and enthusiasm. Brian is to be commended for his achievements on the field and in the classroom.”

The first Hobart football player to be named a first team Academic All-American (2008), Monaco earned the Gordon L. Richardson '33 Memorial Prize, given to a Hobart pre-med student in his junior year with strong academic credentials and concern for humankind. He is a Presidential Leadership Scholar and earned the 2007 Druid Award for Character.

Active in the campus community, Monaco is a biology teaching fellow on campus and a member of the Health Professions Club. He has volunteered at Sisters of Charity Hospital Surgery Center and with the Geneva Boxing Club. Monaco has also served as a member of Hobart's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.

On the field, Monaco is a 6-foot-2, 290-pound offensive lineman. One of two captains for this year's squad, he is a three-year starter, a three-time Liberty League All-Academic Team member, and a two-time All-Liberty League selection. This season, Monaco is a leader on the line that has helped the Statesmen lead the Liberty League third down conversion (43.2%), and ranks third in rushing (162.4 yds/g), sacks allowed (14), and fourth down conversion (56%).

Monaco has helped the Statesmen win three consecutive Liberty League Championships and make three straight NCAA Playoff appearances.

As a first team All-District selection, Monaco will be on the ballot for the ESPN The Magazine Academic All-America teams.

Hobart is 5-3 overall, 4-2 in the conference. The Statesmen carry a three-game win streak into their final contest of the year at Rochester on Nov. 14. The third annual Centennial Cup is scheduled to kickoff at 12:05 p.m.