Iowa State Football Stars Becht, Brahmer, Burkle Join YSS Ambassador Program

AMES, Iowa — Three Iowa State football players are teaming up with YSS to make a difference off the field.

Quarterback Rocco Becht and tight ends Benjamin Brahmer and Gabe Burkle are the newest Cyclones to sign on as YSS Ambassadors, joining a growing roster of student-athletes using their platforms to inspire and support youth across Iowa. YSS creates opportunities for Ambassadors to get involved throughout the year, allowing them to use their influence to bring awareness to the organization’s mission and support local youth and families in need.

“Rocco, Ben, and Gabe are not only leaders on the field, but they’re also showing what it means to be role models off the field,” said YSS President, CEO and ’95 alumnus Andrew Allen. “Their commitment to creating hope and opportunity with YSS sends a powerful message to young people across Iowa — that they are valued, supported, and never alone.”

Becht led the Cyclones to double-digit wins for the first time in program history last season and earned All-Big 12 honorable mention honors in the process. He’s thrown for 860 yards this season with seven touchdowns and one interception.

“I couldn’t wait to become a YSS Ambassador,” Becht said, “because of the impact I’ll be able to have on the younger generation.”

Brahmer, who has a team-high 14 receptions for 109 yards and three receiving touchdowns this season, was named to the All-Big 12 honorable mention team last season, despite missing games with an injury.

“I know how important mentorship and positive opportunities are,” Brahmer explained. “I’m looking forward to using my platform to help YSS continue making a difference.”

Burkle has 10 receptions for 149 yards and a touchdown in 2025. Last season, he played in all 14 games, making eight starts and had a career-best 26 receptions for 296 yards.

“Helping your community is very important,” Burkle said. “I’m excited to be able to do that through YSS.”

Becht, Brahmer, and Burkle join Iowa State men’s basketball star Tamin Lipsey and women’s basketball standout Arianna Jackson, both returning Ambassadors for the 2025-26 season. Together, these athletes will help YSS create hope and opportunity for thousands of youth and families across Iowa.