Four Squads Earn NAIA Scholar Team Honors

William Penn University Athletics

Oskaloosa–A total of four William Penn athletic programs were recognized for exceptional work in the classroom in 2015-2016 as they were named NAIA Scholar Teams Friday.

A total of 1,585 programs (83 more than last year) from within the NAIA received the laurel, highlighted by the Missouri Baptist women’s golf team being named Scholar Team of the Year by combining for a 3.95 Grade Point Average. The top four spots on the national list were women’s golf programs.

The Statesmen followed suit as the women’s golfers, headed by Coach Nik Rule, also headlined William Penn’s foursome with a 3.59 GPA. The volleyball team, led by Jennifer Carlson, was next with a 3.25 GPA. Head Coach Allen Friesen guided the women’s cross country team to a 3.19 GPA, while the women’s soccer crew, coached by Willie McGowan, claimed a 3.16 GPA during the school year.

For a team to earn an NAIA Scholar Team award, it must have a minimum 3.0 grade-point average (on a 4.0 scale) as defined by the institution. The team GPA includes all eligible varsity student-athletes.