17 M State student-athletes earn MCAC Academic Excellence honors

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At Minnesota State Community and Technical College, excellence on the court and the field is matched by achievement in the classroom.

The Minnesota College Athletic Conference (MCAC) recognized 17 M State student-athletes for outstanding academic achievement during the fall 2025 semester. These individual honors celebrate students who successfully balance full-time coursework with competition in NJCAA-sponsored collegiate athletics, demonstrating exceptional commitment, discipline and time management.

Among those honored are four Lady Spartans Volleyball team members:

Katie HessKeela JohnsonKaitlyn OlsonSophie Sanstead

The Spartans Football team also made a strong academic showing, with 13 student-athletes earning MCAC Academic Excellence recognition:

Jack BurdickAmir Downs (All Division, All Region, Second Team All-American)Tremayne GrahamJ’Lan High (All Division, All Region)Jame HightowerJaylen IgouParker RandFred RushingAntonio Sanchez Larry SmithDemeutrese Thomas Mark VahColton Warrington (MCAC Sportsmanship Award recipient)

“These recognitions highlight what it truly means to be a student-athlete at M State,” said Steve King, co-athletic coordinator. “Our students are committed to excellence in everything they do.”

For full team rosters and hometowns, visit M State Athletics.