Not only did Pat Mertens (‘86) excel on the football field for which he was recognized, Mertens was also heralded for his academic abilities.
In 1984, Mertens had a stellar campaign as he finished the season by being named to the NAIA District 11 First Team Defense as a linebacker after starting his career as a defensive back.
That junior season, Mertens set a school record with 163 tackles, 52 unassisted. In addition, he tied Peru’s single-season record with seven interceptions – still third-best in Bobcat history. He was twice named as the District’s Defensive Player of the Week.
During the 1985 season, Mertens was the Bobcats’ leading tackler with 124 total, 51 unassisted. He was named the NAIA District 11 Defensive Player of the Week for his efforts against Midland in which he recorded 21 tackles and one quarterback sack.
Following the 1985 season, Mertens was once again named to the NAIA District 11 First Team Defense and was the Lincoln Journal Star Defensive Player of the Year. Mertens was the first Peru State football player to be named to the then-GTE College Division Second Team, which is commonly known as an Academic All-American.
Three of his sons later played for the Bobcats – all of whom have received various athletic and academic accolades. Mertens and his son, Jake, both were Swenson Award winners.
