After finishing his career at McNary, Kyle Bonn went onto play offensive tackle for Willamette University for four years (Submitted).
Former McNary offensive lineman Kyle Bonn wrapped up his career with the Willamette University football team last fall, but earlier this month, Bonn received recognition for his play on the field, as well as for his work in the classroom.
Bonn was one of two Willamette football players to qualify for the Hampshire Honor Society class of 2020, which is sponsored by the National Football Foundation.
The Hampshire Honor Society recognizes college football players from all divisions who are seniors and have maintained at least a 3.2 cumulative grade point average. Players also must be seniors that either are starters or serve as a significant substitute.
“Football has always been a passion of mine and I always have made school one of my top priorities, so to be getting credit for both is just a great feeling,” Bonn said.
As an offensive tackle, Bonn helped the Willamette offense average 235 passing yards per game and 23 touchdowns through the air.
Even though the Bearcats only mustered a 1-8 record this season in year one under new Willamette head coach Isaac Parker — who was the head football coach at McNary from 2012 to 2014 — Bonn was proud to play a key role in laying the groundwork for the rebuilding process at Willamette.
“Even though we didn’t have a great record, there was definitely improvement. I got to see what coach Parker built at McNary and I can’t wait to see what he’s able to do at Willamette,” Bonn said.
In the classroom, Bonn majored in psychology win a double minor in theatre and German. His grade-point-average was just under 3.5 at the end of fall semester.
Even with the spread of COVID-19, Bonn has been able to take online classes through Willamette and still expects to receive his degree next month. After graduation, Bonn is planning on pursuing his master’s degree with the hopes of eventually becoming a counselor.
But no matter what the future holds, Bonn will always cherish his time as a Willamette student-athlete.
“The student-athletes at Willamette are their own community. We go and watch each other’s games and competitions to show our support for each other. We make sure that we’re doing okay with our classes, and if one team member has taken the class before, they are almost always open to help if another team member is struggling in the class. As a student-athlete you always know you have a support network and that’s important,” Bonn said.