Garretson Honored as USTFCCCA Great Lakes Regional Field Athlete of the Year: A Proud Moment for University of Akron Athletics

NEW ORLEANS, La. – Hunter Garretson, a redshirt senior pole vaulter from the University of Akron, has been named the Great Lakes Region Men’s Field Athlete of the Year by the United States Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA). This recognition was made public on March 20.

This is a notable achievement for Garretson, as he is now the fourth athlete from Akron to receive All-Regional honors since 2007. He joins a distinguished group that includes Olympians Clayton Murphy and Shawn Barber. Garretson previously won this award during the 2023 outdoor season.

Garretson’s recent performance at the NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships on March 14 in Virginia Beach, Virginia, helped solidify his status. He finished third, earning First-Team All-America honors for the third time in his career with a remarkable jump of 18-6.75 (5.66m).

Adding to his accolades, Garretson also received the Elite 90 award at the NCAA championship event. This award recognizes student-athletes with the highest GPA competing at the finals. Garretson, who studies mathematics, maintains a perfect 4.0 GPA, highlighting his dedication both on and off the field.

Garretson’s achievement as a three-time Elite 90 award winner is unprecedented in Division I track and field, making him the first to reach this milestone. Only a handful of athletes across all Division I sports have achieved this feat.

The significance of these awards goes beyond just recognition. They reflect the hard work, discipline, and commitment required to excel in both athletics and academics. With only 12% of NCAA student-athletes achieving a GPA of 3.5 or higher, Garretson’s accomplishments set him apart as a role model for aspiring athletes.

In recent years, the conversation around student-athlete mental health has gained momentum. Many athletes, like Garretson, navigate the stress of competition and academic performance. Support systems at universities have been essential in helping students manage these challenges. Garretson’s achievements exemplify how dedication and resilience can lead to success in various aspects of life.

For more insights on student-athlete success and mental health resources, you can visit the NCAA website for detailed reports and studies.

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