Full NFHCA National Academic Squad Release

MANAHAWKIN, N.J. – For the second straight year, 11 members of the Simmons field hockey program earned a place on the 2023 National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) Division III National Academic Squad announced by the association on Wednesday. The Sharks were amongst 1,783 undergraduate student-athletes from 154 institutions be recognized for their outstanding academic prowess. 

Receiving the academic accolades for a fourth time, senior Aria Badra headlined the Sharks recognized. Sam Buck, Emilia Elko, Emma Fissel, Sydney Gonyea, Hannah Groves, Nellie Long, Alison Michalik, Katy Paveglio, Ainslee Shrout and Lilly Taglieri joined Badra on the National Academic Squad. 

The group were amongst 70 student-athletes from across the GNAC to receive the honors as Simmons was third amongst conference schools with 11 student-athletes represented.

The NFHCA National Academic Squad program, sponsored by OPA Winning Teams, celebrates the academic excellence of undergraduate collegiate student-athletes. This prestigious recognition is bestowed upon individuals who have attained a cumulative grade-point average of 3.5 or higher through the fall semester of the current academic year, and who have been nominated by their dedicated NFHCA member coaches.

Simmons finished the 2023 season with a 13-4 overall mark, including a 9-3 record against conference opponents and earned a spot in the GNAC post-season for the third straight year.