Maroons Recognized for Academic Accomplishments

CHICAGO -- Six members of the 2011 University of Chicago softball team have been named to the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) All-American Scholar Athlete Team.

Representing the Maroons were class of 2011 infielder Natalie Povilonis (Naperville, Ill./ Waubonsie Valley); class of 2012 first baseman Liz Payonk (Palos Heights, Ill./ Stagg); class of 2013 pitcher Melissa Collins (Green Bay, Wis./ Ashwaubenon) and outfielder Stazi Tangherlini (Dobbs Ferry, N.Y./ The Masters School); and class of 2014 outfielders Kaitlyn Carpenter (Des Moines, Iowa/ East) and Julia Covello (Mill Creek, Wash./ Jackson).

All-America Scholar Athlete designation is awarded to players who achieved a 3.50 grade point average or higher during the 2010-11 academic year.

In addition to the individual accolades, Chicago garnered All-Academic Team honors as the Maroons' 15 players compiled a composite grade point average of 3.38 -- the 28th-highest GPA among 398 NCAA Division III squads.

With a 23-11 record last spring, Chicago notched its eighth 20-victory campaign in 12 years under Head Coach Ruth Kmak.