2012-13 Stories of the Year (No. 2): Damaschke has breakout season

2012-13 Stories of the Year (No. 2): Damaschke has breakout season

2012-13 Stories of the Year (No. 2): Damaschke has breakout season

MEQUON, Wis. – There were many great and inspiring athletic achievements throughout the 2012-13 athletic year at Concordia University Wisconsin. The list of top stories could have gone on and on, but only six were chosen (honorable mention and top five).

The list was compiled by the CUW Athletic Communications Department and a committee of coaches, and like all lists it is subject to debate. The list of stories will be revealed over the next six weeks with a story being released each Tuesday.

No. 2
Damaschke has breakout season

The term 'star' is now being associated with quarterback Austin Damaschke.

The soon-to-be junior signal caller had one of the most impressive seasons under center during the 2012 campaign for Concordia University Wisconsin. He led the Falcons to seven victories, the most since the 2007 season, and set program season records for completion percentage (66.1) and passing touchdowns (25).

He was recognized as the Private College Player of the Year by the Wisconsin Football Coaches Association for his efforts.

An early season offensive scheme change did not slow down the prized recruit from Bristol, Wis. After three sub-200 yard passing games – disappointing numbers by Damaschke's standards – he rebounded with an average of 271 yards through the air over the final seven contests.

It was his leadership and athletic ability, which allowed head coach Greg Etter and offensive coordinator Henny Hiemenz to open up the playbook as the season progressed to exploit his abilities. Yes, Damaschke can run, but his pinpoint precision is what allowed him to connect with 13 different receivers throughout the season.

He excited the crowd on back-to-back weekends with a combined 39 completions for 619 yards and eight touchdowns midseason against Maranatha Baptist Bible College and Concordia University Chicago. On Nov. 3 Damaschke lit up the air for 390 yards on 26-of-37 passing and five touchdowns. He also ran for 36 yards and a touchdown in an all-important 45-31 victory at Aurora University to keep the Falcons in the hunt for a Northern Athletics Conference title.

After 16 starts under center there is one thing for sure; Damaschke clearly has the capabilities lead the Falcons to a conference title, set numerous records and be remembered as one of the best quarterbacks to ever play at CUW.

2012-13 Stories of the Year:
No. 3:
Milestones set on January 19, 2013
No. 4: Women's Golf is young, talented
No. 5: Men's Tennis continues NAC dominance
HM: Men's Hockey enjoys taste of success