University of the Pacific student-athletes shined a spotlight on academics during spring semester, compiling an overall 3.26 grade-point average, increasing from the fall semester mark of 3.17.

"Our student-athletes take pride in showing success on and off the field," said Taylor Wright, assistant director of athletics for student-athlete services. "We are proud of our Tigers' hard work and perseverance in the classroom. This year's success was a collective effort by our coaches, mentors, professors, student-athlete services staff and most importantly, our student-athletes." 

Spring semester statistics demonstrate their achievements:

• 34 Tiger student-athletes had perfect 4.0 GPAs.
• 94 were named to the dean’s honor roll in their respective schools and colleges with GPAs of 3.5 or better.
• 15 of Pacific’s 17 intercollegiate teams had cumulative GPAs of 3.00 or above

“Excelling in your sport at the highest caliber in college athletics while also upholding academic excellence is both a challenge and privilege,” said swimmer Vivian Truong ’22. “I would say being proud is an understatement.”

Added men’s soccer player Cooper Riley ’22: “I think it’s important to focus on academics because it builds discipline that will carry over into your sport.”  

Time management skills and flexibility are important traits, according to Professor of Chemistry Balint Sztaray, who has served as faculty athletics representative for the past four years. 

“Our student-athletes are everywhere. They are in most classrooms on campus. Many have some of the most difficult majors,” Sztaray said. “The skills they possess help them in their classroom approaches. In addition, while they are full-time students and full-time athletes, they are very aware that academics comes first at Pacific.”

"Congratulations to our Pacific student-athletes for noteworthy academic achievement," said Holly Trexler, senior associate director of athletics for student-athlete services and compliance. “Given the significant travel that many of our teams face in the spring semester, the academic success is a testament to their focus and commitment to excellence."