(By Jacob Horton ’25, special contributer)
The crisp autumn air flowed through Arnold Field as Evan Kutlzer lined up in the defensive backfield, reading the quarterback’s eyes.
In an instant, he broke on the ball, extending his hands to snatch his sixth interception of the season and easily strut into the end zone against Albright College. Plays like this one defined his career at Lebanon Valley College, but his impact extends far beyond the field.
Kutlzer, a standout on the football team, recently earned the prestigious title of Academic All-American, one of the few in LVC history to do so. For him, the recognition is more than just an individual honor.
“I am very proud to be selected as one of the only Academic All-American selections in LVC history,” Kutlzer said. “Not only am I representing myself, but the school, its academic standing and my coaches and teammates as well. They’ve been pivotal in helping me succeed on the field and in the classroom, and I couldn’t have done it without them.”
His dedication to both athletics and academics was evident throughout the season, but one moment stood out above the rest.
“My favorite part of the season was taking the field on senior day with my teammates for the last time,” Kutlzer said. “Being able to help the team to its first shutout in years, along with getting my thirteenth interception to tie the third-place school record, was really special.”
The numbers speak for themselves.
Kutlzer finished the season with 26 tackles and six interceptions, including two against Eastern University and a highlight-reel, one-handed pick against Misericordia University. His presence on the field was a game-changer, but he believes football has prepared him for something bigger.
“Football will help me in the future by teaching me humility, adaptability and the ability to deal with pressure,” Kutlzer said. “Being able to meet deadlines in my career field, adapt to different challenges in the workplace and work well with a group are all key characteristics that will help me in the future.”
As his time in an LVC uniform comes to a close, Kutlzer leaves a legacy of excellence—both as a fierce competitor and as a scholar. His name will be remembered not only for his interceptions but also for his commitment to success in every aspect of life.