Tuesday, 27 October 2026, 5:13
A distinguished local athlete is receiving national recognition for his standout collegiate career.
The U.S. Coast Guard Academy recently announced its 2026 Athletic Hall of Fame class, welcoming seven new inductees. Among them stands Mike Benson, a 2001 graduate originally from Brawley, California. His selection highlights decades of dedication to competitive football at a prestigious federal service academy.
Benson’s collegiate career broke records and established him as one of the most versatile players in school history. During his junior season, he led the entire nation in both kick and punt return statistics. By his senior year, he transitioned seamlessly between roles, leading the team in rushing yards as a running back while simultaneously topping defensive metrics with interceptions as a defensive back.
Mike was a 1997 Brawley Union High School graduate and the son of Bob and Linda Benson.
This honor brings significant pride to Imperial County and the Brawley community. Local high schools and youth athletic programs often look to such achievements as benchmarks for dedication and versatility. Benson’s journey from Brawley Union High School to a federal academy underscores the potential within rural California talent pools.
The Coast Guard Academy has long maintained rigorous athletic standards alongside its military training curriculum. Earning All-American status places Benson among an elite group, ranking him as only the third player in the institution’s football history to achieve this distinction. Such milestones continue to strengthen the bond between service academies and their alumni networks.
Residents celebrating this milestone can expect further community acknowledgments as local organizations typically recognize hometown athletes during seasonal gatherings.
