The Santa Clara University women’s water polo team is making waves in academics. This year, 13 Broncos made it to the 2025 Golden Coast Conference (GCC) All-Academic team. This achievement marks the eighth year in a row that the team has seen double-digit honorees.
Since 2018, the Broncos have been consistent, with no fewer than 11 student-athletes recognized for their academic excellence. They’ve reached 13 or more honorees for six straight years. Notably, Francesca Moynihan and Libby Slater were also named to the Academic All-District At-Large team by College Sports Communicators in June.
To qualify for the GCC All-Academic team, student-athletes must participate in at least half of the season’s games, maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, and complete a minimum of one academic year at their school, which includes freshmen.
Leading the pack is Libby Slater, who boasts an impressive 3.857 GPA in her communication major. This recognition marks her third GCC All-Academic award. Francesca Moynihan, who graduated in winter with a degree in finance, achieved her fourth award with a cumulative GPA of 3.733.
This year also saw some standout true freshmen. Mikayla Crowe, Makenna Genco, Chloe Rizof, and Khloe Tarbet earned their first conference accolades, with Rizof also gaining recognition on the GCC All-Freshman Team.
In total, GCC honored 111 student-athletes this year. California Baptist and San Diego State led the way with 18 honorees each.
Here’s the list of Santa Clara’s recognized students:
– Mia Barkett (SO, DR)
– Annika Burks (SO, 2MD)
– Megan Chambliss (JR, UTL)
– Mikayla Crowe (FR, 2MD)
– Makenna Genco (FR, UTL)
– Sophia Harvey (JR, UTL)
– Evelyn McLaughlin (SO, UTL)
– Francesca Moynihan (SR, DR)
– Chloe Rizof (FR, DR)
– Kate Rodman (SR, DR)
– Libby Slater (SR, 2M)
– Khloe Tarbet (FR, UTL)
– Haley Tassell (SO, GK)
Recent studies show that balancing athletics with academics can improve time management skills and discipline among student-athletes. The commitment these young women have to both their sport and their studies exemplifies this balance. According to a 2022 NCAA report, 88% of student-athletes graduate within six years, which is higher than the general student population.
The success of the Broncos is not just about wins in the pool; it showcases their dedication to becoming well-rounded individuals ready for challenges beyond sports.
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