Ben Gysin returns for his second year as a graduate assistant after a stellar four-year career with the Lakers on the offensive line.
A native of East Palestine, Ohio, Gysin redshirted as a true freshman in 2010 and then went on to start 44 consecutive games over the next four years on the Mercyhurst offensive line. He helped block for back-to-back PSAC West Freshmen of the Year - Richie Sanders in 2011 and Brandon Brown-Dukes in 2012. He then helped Brown-Dukes become the first running back in program history to post back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons (2012 and 2013).
During Gysin’s career, Mercyhurst finished no worse than sixth in the PSAC in time of possession, including first in 2013. That season, Mercyhurst was second in the conference by averaging 243.3 yards per game on the ground. He also helped pave the way for six All-Conference running back selections during his career - Richie Sanders (2011), Brandon Brown-Dukes (2012, 2013, 2014), and Allen Jones II (2012, 2013).
Last season, Gysin was an integral part of a unit that allowed only ten sacks in eleven games - second in the conference.
Gysin was a two-time All-PSAC First Team selection and was a two-time Division II ECAC All-Star member. He was also a Don Hansen All-Super Region I Third Team selection in 2013 and was a Daktronics All-Region First Team and a Beyond Sports Network All-Region Second Team honoree in 2014.
Prior to attending Mercyhurst, Gysin went to East Palestine High School where he lettered in football and basketball. There, he earned a number of accolades, including being named the Columbiana County Player of the Year twice and an Honorable Mention All-State selection as a senior.
He graduated from Mercyhurst with a degree in criminal justice.
