By: by KSU Sports Information
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NEW ORLEANS- Kennesaw State stand out track and field athletes Mackenzie Howe and Gianni Catalano were given All- Academic status, the USFCCCA announced this week. Both athletes were the only male and female representatives named on the list that features Division I schools from across the country.
"This award is a combination of athletic and academic success," head track and field coach Andy Eggerth said. "To receive this award, one had to qualify for the preliminary round of the NCAA Championships. It's very rewarding for us as coaches to have athletes represent our program so well. I'm very proud of them, and this is a great springboard into their professional careers."
Catalano and Howe both finished their careers for the Owls at the East Preliminary Round of the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championship. Catalano qualified for the meet during the Florida State Twilight meet. His time of 1:49.99 helped him secure a spot in the outdoor postseason. He finished 38th at the preliminary competition.
Howe already have made it to Nationals during the cross country season qualified in the 10,000 meters for the second straight year. She finished 21st in competition with a time of 34:13.69 which was a career best for the distance runner.
The honor received by both athletes was not only for their performance on the track but also in the classroom. Catalano wrapped up his career at Kennesaw State with a 3.29 gpa while Howe had a 3.37 gpa.
To qualify for the USTFCCCA All-Academic Track and Field Team, the student-athlete must have compiled a cumulative grade point average of 3.25 and have met either of the following athletic standards: for the indoor season, a student-athlete must have finished the regular season ranked in the national top 96 in an individual event or ranked in the national top 48 (collective listing) in a relay event on the official NCAA POP list provided by TFRRS.org; for the outdoor season, a student-athlete must have participated in any round of the NCAA Division I Championships (including preliminary rounds.
