Seven gymnasts earn Scholastic All-American award

PROVO, Utah — Seven BYU gymnasts were named Scholastic All-Americans by the National Association of Collegiate Gymnastics Coaches/Women Academic Award for the 2016-2017 season.

Angel Zhong, a freshman studying neuroscience, led the team with a 4.00 GPA. Two other freshmen, Emily Cannon and Briana Pearson, also earned the title for the first time. Cannon and Pearson are studying exercise science and management, respectively.

Savanna Maradiaga, a sophomore studying exercise science, has now received the award two years in a row. Jessie Westergard, a sophomore studying athletic training, Jill van Mierlo, a junior studying early childhood education, and Brittni Hawes, a junior studying exercise and wellness, also earned Scholastic All-American honors.

“I think being recognized as a Scholastic All-American is a huge deal,” BYU head coach Guard Young said. “We spend a lot of time acknowledging great athletic performances, but the true reason for why these athletes are here is to get an education. These student-athletes truly embody what that means.”

To be eligible for the award, a student-athlete must have a 3.5 GPA throughout the 2016-2017 season.