News Summary
Five student-athletes from Newberry College have been honored for their academic and athletic success by being named to the NCAA Division 2 Academic All-District Baseball Team. Kade Faircloth, Jesse Free, Hunter French, Brayden Gilson, and Wilson Wages were recognized for their commitment to excellence, demonstrating outstanding performance in both their studies and on the field. This accolade underscores the importance of maintaining high academic standards while competing at an elite level.
Newberry, SC – Five student-athletes from Newberry College have been honored for their academic and athletic achievements by being named to the NCAA Division 2 College Sports Communicators Academic All-District Baseball Team. The players recognized are Kade Faircloth, Jesse Free, Hunter French, Brayden Gilson, and Wilson Wages, affirming their commitment to excellence both on the field and in the classroom.
To qualify for this prestigious award, student-athletes must be in their sophomore year or higher, maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.50, and have participated in at least 90% of their team’s games or started in at least 66% of the games. In the case of pitchers, they must have made at least 17 game appearances or pitched a minimum of 35 innings throughout the season. These rigorous criteria ensure that only the most dedicated and accomplished student-athletes receive recognition.
Kade Faircloth, who graduated with a degree in Business Administration, wrapped up his season with an impressive batting average of .289. He recorded 12 doubles, four triples, and two home runs, while leading the team with 38 runs batted in (RBI). His performance on the field has been indicative of his commitment to both academics and athletics.
Fellow teammate Jesse Free graduated with a degree in Sports Management, finishing the season with a batting average that topped the team at .340. He contributed one double, one home run, and 10 RBIs, showcasing his valuable role in the team’s offensive strategy.
On the mound, Hunter French, who earned a degree in Exercise Science and Human Performance, made significant contributions by appearing in 19 games, including 10 starts. He secured one victory along with two saves, highlighting his effectiveness in crucial game situations.
Wilson Wages, a Psychology major, showcased both hitting and fielding skills, managing a batting average of .312. He recorded five doubles, six triples, two home runs, and 33 RBIs. His versatility has proven essential to the team’s success throughout the season.
Lastly, Brayden Gilson, also pursuing a degree in Business Administration, made a notable impact as a pitcher. He led the team with 20 appearances, accumulating five saves and ending the season with a record of 1-1. His performances on the hill were critical for Newberry College’s pitching staff.
This recognition not only highlights these athletes’ athletic prowess but also reflects their dedication to their studies. The NCAA Division 2 Academic All-District Team honors students who excel in their respective sports and maintain high academic standards, reaffirming the ideal of a balanced collegiate experience.
The recognition of Faircloth, Free, French, Gilson, and Wages serves as an inspiration to other student-athletes at Newberry College, illustrating the importance of striving for excellence both in sports and academics. Their achievements exemplify how hard work and dedication in both areas can lead to significant accolades.
As Newberry College continues to foster a culture of academic and athletic excellence, the accomplishments of these five players strengthen the institution’s reputation for producing well-rounded individuals ready for future challenges both in their careers and beyond.
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Additional Resources
- Newberry Observer: Five Wolves Earn CSC Academic All-District Honors for Baseball
- Wikipedia: NCAA Division II
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- Google Search: AU Women’s Basketball PBC Preseason Coaches Poll
- Newberry Observer: It Feels Like Family
- Google Scholar: Academic Excellence in Athletics
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- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Football Signing Day
- Winthrop Eagles: Tim Perry – Baseball Coach
- Google News: College Baseball Coaching
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