Gymnasts GPA

There's no shortage of cheering at sporting events. When our favorite athlete or team excels, we celebrate -- and with good reason. It's just as important, however, to celebrate the good things athletes do off the playing field.

The Southeast Missouri State women's gymnastics team has reason to be excited. In August it was announced that last year's squad posted the highest cumulative grade-point average among its peers in all NCAA programs, per the National Association of Collegiate Gymnastics Coaches/Women. This was the fifth time for the program in seven years. (Two of the years the squad came in second.)

The team posted a 3.8146 GPA, just above Western Michigan's 3.8086 GPA.

All 13 members of the 2012-2013 squad made the NACGC/W All-Academic Team. Of this group, six athletes earned a 4.0 GPA. This tied Texas Woman's University for the top spot nationally.

Achieving this level of academic success is a phenomenal accomplishment. These athletes have dedicated themselves to their studies in addition to their athletic efforts. It would be impressive if a majority of the team attained this level of excellence, but for the entire squad to succeed is remarkable.

It's appropriate that we also commend the coaching staff and academic advisers for their efforts. Having mentors who encourage classroom success is key.

Congratulations to each of the gymnasts from last year's squad. We look forward to more success this year for the team and other student athletes at Southeast.