Cleveland State Softball Among Nation's Best Academically

Oct. 13, 2004

CLEVELAND - The Cleveland State softball team has been recognized for their efforts in the classroom during the 2003-04 school year, placing eighth among NCAA Division 1 softball teams with a grade point average of 3.392. The honor was announced by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association.

Eastern Michigan earned top honors nationally in the Division 1 standings with a 3.552 gpa, edging Saint Louis and Marist College, who turned in 3.552 and 3.529 grade point averages, respectively. Detroit finished fourth, followed by Southern Illinois, Marshall, Wichita State, Cleveland State, Missouri-Kansas City, and Indiana State to round out the top ten.

The ranking marks the 12th consecutive year that Cleveland State has been placed among the top 20 for team cumulative grade point average.

"Academics is the most important thing we do," commented coach Julie Jones. "We place a lot of emphasis on it and we are proud of having success both on and off the field - and that's what it's all about."

The Vikings had 14 players who registered a grade point average of 3.0 or higher, which was tops among CSU athletic teams. Three players have made the dean's list every semester during their career.