Shepherd University Athletics

Essis was a four-year player and three-year starter on the football team from 1977-80.  The Rams posted a 28-13-1 (.678) mark over his career with a pair of appearances in the Coal Bowl. A three-year starter, Essis was a two-time All-WVIAC choice and gained first team honors as a senior.  He was a named an NAIA honorable mention All-American as a senior. Essis completed his career with 307 total tackles (111 solo), 19 sacks, four fumble recoveries, and a blocked kick. His 307 career tackles rank him eighth on the Shepherd all-time list.