Cracraft, Gershmel named Simpson’s top newcomers from 2024-25

INDIANOLA, Iowa – Freshman wide receiver Noah Cracraft and first-year wrestler Paige Gershmel made immediate impacts in their respective sports, earning the 2024-25 SC ESPY Newcomers of the Year awards.

Both athletes set new standards for excellence as they kicked off their Simpson careers with record-setting performances.

Noah Cracraft, football
Cracraft made an instant splash in his freshman season, setting a new program rookie record with 14 receiving touchdowns while hauling in 69 receptions for 1048 yards. He was named the inaugural American Rivers Conference Rookie of the Year and became the first Simpson player to earn all-region honors during their rookie campaign.

Cracraft's electrifying season included a 97-yard touchdown reception, the longest offensive play in school history. He recorded multiple touchdowns in five games and topped 100 receiving yards four times, tying for the conference lead with 11 touchdowns in A-R-C play. Cracraft also earned D3football.com National Team of the Week honors on Oct. 1.

Paige Gershmel, women's wrestling
Gershmel's standout first season included a fourth-place finish at regionals, qualifying her for the NCWWC Championships where she picked a win in the opening round. She was runner-up at the inaugural American Rivers Conference Championships and won four tournament titles during the season.

Named A-R-C Wrestler of the Week on Feb. 3, Gershmel led Simpson with a program-record 39 wins. She also ranked second on the team with 14 technical falls and notched 17 pins, placing her fourth in that category. Gershmel opened the season with nine consecutive wins and later posted a 13-match winning streak.

2024-25 SC ESPYS
J Jensen III - Male Record-Breaking Performer of the Year
Haley Rasmussen - Female Record-Breaking Performer of the Year
Noah Cracraft - Male Newcomer of the Year
Paige Gershmel - Female Newcomer of the Year