Washington seniors Jack Giardino (left) and Ethan Hansen have posted grade point averages above 3.75, earning IFCA Academic All-State honors. Photos courtesy of Susan Harshman, Washington Demon football.

Two seniors off this year’s Washington Demon football team (7-3 overall) received high praise for their work in the classroom. The Iowa Football Coaches Association (IFCA) has recognized Jack Giardino and Ethan Hansen with Academic All-State honors.

Along with impactful seasons on the gridiron, the members of the Academic All-State team must be a junior or a senior who post a grade point average of 3.75 or higher on a 4.0 scale.

Giardino’s academic accomplishment came during a season where he adjusted to a new offensive position. Moving from wide receiver to running back, he amassed 795 yards of total offense, including 737 rushing yards. Ten of Washington’s 31 rushing touchdowns this season came on the legs of Giardino. He also recorded 43 total tackles and intercepted two passes, returning one for a 61-yard touchdown versus Fort Madison.

Hansen also played both ways for the Demon football team, making notable contributions on defense. His 60.5 total tackles and seven tackles for loss rank second on the team. He also collected 32 receptions as a wide receiver, second on the team, catching three touchdown receptions.

The Demon football team finished the season 7-3 overall, making their fifth straight appearance in the Class 3A playoffs.