Nov. 4, 2004

By: Patrick Clark - CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. - (Thursday, November 04, 2004) The Southeast Missouri State softball was recognized among elite academic performers in the nation for the 2003-2004 academic year. The team had the 17th-best team grade-point-average in the nation as they combined for a 3.310, as announced by The National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA).

With their 3.310 GPA, Southeast was narrowly edged out by Tennessee-Martin for the top GPA in the Ohio Valley Conference. Eastern Michigan claimed the highest GPA overall with a team average of 3.552. Also joining Southeast and Tennessee-Martin from the OVC was Morehead State, as they finished with a 3.260 GPA.

"Our team ranking dropped from last season," said Head Softball Coach Lana Richmond, "but our 3.3 GPA is still very outstanding. Our program still consistently reflects strong academic commitment."

This prestigious honor has been awarded since 1996 to softball teams from around the nation. Southeast has made the ranks every year since their first appearance in 1999 as the 10th highest academic performer. In 2000, the team tied for 9th place, before making the leap to 3rd place in 2001. In 2002, the team climbed to its highest finish ever, as they were 2nd in the nation. Last season they finished third with a 3.458 GPA.

"This shows that our goals to be successful in the classroom, graduate on time and becoming marketable when leaving Southeast and head into the real world are being met," said Richmond.

The award is given to the top ten winners in seven categories based on their cumulative team GPAs, submitted by NFCA member head coaches. Teams were honored in 5 college divisions (Division I, II and III, NAIA and junior college) and 2 high school divisions (weighed and non-weighted).

"I'm very proud of our players accomplishment and the priority that they have placed in their academics," said Richmond.