DENVER - As the University of Denver ski team prepares to defend their National Championship in Lake Placid, New York next week, they continue to focus on something important off the slopes. Academics.

Twelve Pioneers have been named to the National Collegiate All-Academic Ski Team. To earn a spot on the list, a student-athlete must have a 3.5 grade point average or better and have competed in one of three NCAA regional competitions. The requirements make it one of the most difficult academic teams of its kind nationally.

"Our athletes impress us every year with their accomplishments in the classroom," said Nordic head coach David Stewart. "They are putting on a high-wire act every day, balancing rigorous academics with hours of training, racing and travel. I am so proud of their work."

Denver alpine head coach Andy LeRoy added to Stewart's sentiments.

"These academic honors are well deserved and something our program takes pride in earning," LeRoy said. "My congratulations go out those listed from our team, and from all other institutions across the country. Keep up the great work!"

Those on the team from DU, in alphabetical order: Silje Benum (Trondheim, Norway), Devin Delaney (North Conway, N.H.), Monica Hübner ( Garmisch-Partenkrichen, Germany ), Natalie Knowles (Toronto, Ontario), Alex Leever (Vail, Colo.), Espen Lysdahl (Asker, Norway), Moritz Madlener (Sulzberg, Bavaria, Germany), Max Marno (Centennial, Wyo.), Emma Naatz (Salt Lake City, Utah), Sylvia Nordskar ( Bærum, Norway), Trevor Philp (Calgary, Alberta) and Erik Read (Calgary, Alberta).

The Pioneers will head to Lake Placid on Sunday with the NCAA championships slated for March 11-14. DU will look to add a record 23rd National Championship to their glorious history. Along with their skiing equipment, you can be sure they will also pack their laptops and books and continue their commitment to being true STUDENT-athletes.


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