Nine Flashes Named NFCA Scholar Athletes

Nine of Kent State’s 21 softball players from the 2010-11 school year were recently named National Fastpitch Coaches Association Scholar Athletes.

The NFCA also released its top team grade point averages, where the Golden Flashes ranked in the Top 30 for the third straight year with a 3.339 GPA over two semesters.

"I’m really proud of the fact that this program has consistently been one of the top academic teams in the country," Head Coach Karen Linder said. "It’s our goal to be a top program both academically and athletically. We look to bring in students who are really committed to their academics as well as their athletics."

Current senior Sara Chance earned Scholar Athlete honors for the third consecutive season. Classmate Maleeya Coleman was recognized for the second straight year along with 2010 senior Markie Pozzuto.

All five members of the 2010 freshman class (Kim Morgason, Alex Marcantonio, Abbey Ledford, Lauren McNeil, Caitie Kilbane) took in the academic honor with their first opportunity. Two-time All-MAC selection and Kent State’s career co-leader in home runs, Jess Carmichael also gained Scholar Athlete honors.

With a long history of academic success, KSU has had 14 different players honored as Academic All-Americans.

Kent State’s 2012 regular season begins Feb. 10 at the UNLV Invitational.