Jafar Thomas Awarded Husky MO Running Back Scholarship

Jafar Thomas has been announced as the recipient of the seventh annual Husky Mo Running Back Scholarship, given by Bethany alum Mike Olsen.

Thomas, a freshman football player from East Orange, New Jersey, is the fourth recipient of the Husky MO Running Back Scholarship, courtesy of Mike Olson, class of 1972.

Olson, a Swedes running back from 1968-1972, still holds the Bethany College school record for most rushing yards in a game with 250 against Sterling College in 1971. The scholarship title comes from the nickname Olson received from his fraternity, Pi Sigma Chi. Olson was called "Husky MO" to distinguish him from another student named Mike Olson, who was called "Lean and Mean Mo." Mike's wife Jill (Schey) is also a Bethany alum, class of 1973.

Last season, Thomas rushed for 480 yards on 88 attempts, averaging 5.5 yards per carry and 43.6 yards per game. Thomas also had 263 receiving yards on 21 receptions, averaging 12.5 yards per catch and 23.9 yards per game.

"Jafar has made a significant contribution to our offense in just his freshman year," said Head Coach Manny Matsakis. "As a recipient of the Husky MO scholarship, he has exemplified the athleticism and explosiveness of the athlete for which the award was named."

The Husky Mo Running Back Scholarship is awarded, upon coaches' selection, to a running back in good standing. Other recipients of the scholarship include Sean Dahley, Junior Allen, and Tevis Linnebur.