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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 Hess
  • Keela Johnson
  • Kaitlyn Olson
  • Sophie Sanstead

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

  • Jack Burdick
  • Amir Downs (All Division, All Region, Second Team All-American)
  • Tremayne Graham
  • J’Lan High (All Division, All Region)
  • Jame Hightower
  • Jaylen Igou
  • Parker Rand
  • Fred Rushing
  • Antonio Sanchez
  •  Larry Smith
  • Demeutrese Thomas
  •  Mark Vah
  • Colton 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.