By: Clint Neumann
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The University of Sioux Falls Swimming program continues to showcase excellence beyond the pool, as four Cougars have been named to the College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District Team. Valentina Brunelli, Emily Groom, Sarah Knox, and Alessia Moro have been recognized for their outstanding academic achievements while competing at a high level in the pool.
Commitment to Academic Excellence
The CSC Academic All-District award honors student-athletes who exemplify the balance of academic and athletic success. To qualify, student-athletes must maintain a cumulative 3.50 GPA while meeting competitive participation criteria, including competing in at least five meets or placing in the top eight at a conference championship event.
USF's honorees have excelled in rigorous academic programs while meeting the demands of collegiate swimming, demonstrating the university's commitment to fostering well-rounded student-athletes.
Meet the Honorees
Brunelli has thrived in her biology coursework, excelling in a challenging major while balancing the rigors of collegiate swimming. Her dedication to academics and athletics has earned her a spot on the Academic All-District team.
Emily Groom – Sophomore | San Diego, Calif. | Psychology & Criminology
Groom has showcased her ability to manage a demanding double major in Psychology and Criminology while competing at a high level for USF. Her strong academic performance and contributions to the team make her a well-deserving honoree.
Sarah Knox – Senior | Blaine, Minn. | Exercise Science & Psychology
A senior leader for the Cougars, Knox has successfully balanced the demands of two fields of study in Exercise Science and Psychology. Her consistent academic excellence has made her a standout both in and out of the pool.
Alessia Moro – Sophomore | Trieste, Italy | Biology
Moro has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic success, maintaining an impressive GPA while competing as a key contributor for the Cougars. Her hard work in the biology program and in the pool exemplifies the qualities of a true student-athlete.
A Tradition of Academic Success
USF Swimming continues to emphasize academic achievement, with Brunelli, Groom, Knox, and Moro representing the program's commitment to excellence in the classroom. Their ability to manage the demands of training, competition, and coursework is a testament to their dedication and work ethic.
With this recognition, all four student-athletes are now eligible for CSC Academic All-America consideration, a prestigious national honor that further highlights the academic success of top student-athletes across the country.
