Georgia Tech Football Trio Honored by National Football Foundation

Apr 16, 2025 at 3:00 PM

Three standout Georgia Tech football players have been recognized for their academic and athletic achievements as members of the 2025 National Football Foundation Hampshire Honor Society. Josh Beetham, Henry Freer, and David Shanahan exemplify excellence both on and off the field. To qualify for this prestigious honor, athletes must be primary contributors during the previous season, maintain a GPA of at least 3.2, and complete their bachelor's degrees no later than the upcoming summer. All three student-athletes achieved these milestones while pursuing advanced studies at Georgia Tech, further cementing their commitment to academic success.

Josh Beetham, originally from Yorkville, Illinois, graduated from Michigan with a degree in education before joining Georgia Tech’s graduate program in management. His journey reflects dedication not only to sports but also to higher education. Meanwhile, long snapper Henry Freer, hailing from College Park, Georgia, earned his undergraduate degree in chemical and biomolecular engineering in May 2023. He is now part of Georgia Tech’s Ph.D. program in ChBE, making history as the first known Yellow Jackets football player to balance doctoral studies with active team membership. Punter David Shanahan, who attended St. Patrick’s Secondary School in Ireland, completed his bachelor’s degree in business administration in December 2023 and is currently enrolled in Georgia Tech’s renowned master’s program in analytics.

Beyond their accomplishments in academics, these athletes continue to make strides professionally. Beetham plans to return for one last season in 2025, adding another chapter to his storied career. On the other hand, Freer and Shanahan are exploring opportunities in professional football, showcasing their versatility and skill set beyond collegiate play.

The recognition extends beyond individual achievements; it highlights the broader success of Georgia Tech athletics. In total, over 2,500 student-athletes across 339 institutions were named to the Hampshire Honor Society this year. This accomplishment underscores Georgia Tech's commitment to fostering an environment where students can excel academically and athletically.

In addition to celebrating its athletes, Georgia Tech continues to focus on enhancing its facilities and programs through initiatives like Full Steam Ahead, a $500 million fundraising campaign aimed at elevating intercollegiate athletics. Projects include renovations to Bobby Dodd Stadium and advancements in operational support across all teams. Fans and supporters can engage with these efforts by visiting dedicated websites for more information.

As Georgia Tech looks forward to another exciting season, including key matchups against rivals such as Clemson and Pitt, the legacy of excellence set by Beetham, Freer, and Shanahan serves as inspiration for future generations. Their stories highlight the university’s mission to produce well-rounded individuals who achieve greatness in every aspect of life.