10 Raiders Make Academic All-District Soccer—But You Won't Believe Who Got Left Out!

Ten student-athletes from the Southern Oregon University (SOU) soccer teams have received recognition for their exceptional academic performance, being named Academic All-District performers by the College Sports Communicators. This accolade celebrates student-athletes who excel in both their sporting endeavors and their academic pursuits.

For the second consecutive year, the Raider women’s soccer team achieved the maximum number of selections with six honorees: Miller Bertani, Sierra Betzler, Emily Hyde, Carter O’Shea, Payton Puppe-Wotipka, and Frida Vargas. The men’s team was represented by Kaden Barker, Daniel Palomino, Casey Ruvolo, and Tristan Skerritt.

To qualify for the Academic All-District award, student-athletes must be at least sophomores with a minimum GPA of 3.5 and must participate in at least 90% of their team’s games or start two-thirds of them. Among this year’s honorees, seven previously earned All-Cascade Conference recognition, showcasing their prowess on the field alongside their academic achievements.

All ten athletes are now eligible for consideration for the prestigious Academic All-America team. This recognition carries added significance as it highlights the dual commitment these students have made to both their studies and their sports. Notably, last year, Casey Ruvolo made it onto the Academic All-America team, further underscoring the caliber of talent present within SOU's athletic programs.

The Raider women's soccer team recently completed one of its most successful seasons in history, finishing with a record of 14-3-3 after reaching the second round of the NAIA Tournament. Meanwhile, the men’s soccer team achieved a season record of 10-5-4, marking their tenth consecutive season with double-digit wins. This consistency speaks volumes about the ongoing success of SOU’s soccer programs and their commitment to excellence in both athletics and academics.

These achievements are a testament not only to the individual efforts of the student-athletes but also to the supportive environment fostered by SOU's athletic and academic institutions. As they continue to balance the demands of competitive sports and rigorous academics, these student-athletes exemplify the ideal of a well-rounded education.

The recognition from the College Sports Communicators is not just a pat on the back; it highlights a growing trend in collegiate sports where academic performance is celebrated alongside athletic skill. This holistic approach resonates with the values of higher education and emphasizes the importance of developing skills that extend beyond the playing field.

As these student-athletes move forward, they carry with them not only their records and accolades but also the lessons learned from their experiences in both the classroom and on the field. Their journey reflects the broader mission of colleges and universities to produce graduates who are prepared for success in all areas of life.

This story first appeared on the Southern Oregon University Sports Information website, souraiders.com.