July 26, 2012

NEW ORLEANS – The Northern Illinois track & field team added another honor to their impressive 2011-12 season Thursday, as they were named an All-Academic team by the United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA).
 
NIU was one of 171 teams nationwide and one of six Illinois schools to receive the honor. In addition, the Huskies were a part of the Mid-American Conference’s nine selections, which ties with the Big Ten for the second most in the country behind the Big East’s 12 picks.
 
"We are honored to be amongst the Division I Track and Field All-Academic Teams,” said NIU head coach Connie Teaberry. “Our student-athletes continue to hold themselves accountable in the classroom, working diligently to be the best in their respective majors. Their drive keeps our program academically successful, and our staff proud of their accomplishments."
 
NIU finished the season with a 3.23 team GPA, placing them in a tie for 88th nationally with East Tennessee State, Liberty, Northern Arizona and MAC rival Kent State. Northern’s GPA also ranked ahead of schools like William & Mary, Michigan, Princeton, Columbia, Ohio State, and Virginia. Duke led the country with a 3.58 GPA, followed by Wofford (3.53) and Weber State (3.52).
 
The NIU roster featured 21 athletes with a 3.0 GPA or higher and five with a perfect 4.0 GPA. The Huskies were honored with a Public Recognition Award from the NCAA earlier this summer as having one of the nation’s best APRs.
 
In order to be named an All-Academic team, a program must maintain a cumulative 3.0 GPA or higher.