Track and Field Athletes Shine in Academics
The United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) recently honored 25 student-athletes from the Quakers with All-Academic Team status. This recognition celebrates those who excel both on the track and in their studies.
On the men’s side, standout athletes include Kai Deines, Scott Dochat, and Alec Jackson, among others. For the women, noteworthy mentions are Fore Abinusawa, Adannia Agbo, and Chloe Hassman.
To qualify, athletes must maintain a GPA of 3.25 or higher. They also need to rank in the top 96 of the indoor season or be among the top 48 in regional competitions. Additionally, they must have completed at least two semesters.
The USTFCCCA award applies to all NCAA programs with a cumulative team GPA of at least 3.0.
Academic Highlights
Men’s Team:
- Kai Deines: Major in Finance
- Scott Dochat: Anthropology
- Alec Jackson: Finance
- Luke Johnson: Philosophy, Politics, & Economics
Women’s Team:
- Fore Abinusawa: Healthcare Management
- Chloe Hassman: Neuroscience
- Meghan Hart: Biology
- Tumi Onaleye: Health and Societies
Maintaining both academic and athletic excellence is no small feat. As the pressure to perform increases, many programs are focusing more on mental health and wellness. For instance, studies show that student-athletes are more likely to experience stress but also report that a supportive environment helps them cope effectively.
Recent data from a survey revealed that approximately 70% of student-athletes feel overwhelmed by their commitments. As a result, universities are beginning to enhance academic support services and counseling resources to better assist these dedicated individuals.
This recognition of athletic and academic prowess also reflects a growing trend where institutions emphasize holistic development. The future of collegiate athletics may increasingly focus on the balance between sports and education, preparing students for success in all aspects of life.
For more details about the USTFCCCA and their academic programs, you can visit their official site here.
Celebrating these achievements reminds us that student-athletes are much more than competitors; they are leaders and scholars in their own right.