POMONA, Calif. - Seven of the Cal Poly Pomona's 10 intercollegiate teams made it to the postseason in 2010-11. More importantly though, all 10 squads combined for an overall grade point average of 2.99 - the highest mark recorded in program history.
Considering all of the athletic achievements attained by CPP this past year, it's easy to understand how the academic accolades might be overshadowed. Taking a closer look at the classroom performances, the Broncos' volleyball squad put together the highest GPA with a 3.31.
"Our student-athletes deserve to be recognized for their commitment to excellence in the classroom and in athletics," CPP academic counselor Scott Tsuji said. "With a true understanding of the importance of education, this group of individuals has done a tremendous job of balancing the rigors of an academic schedule with the demands of practice and competing in each of their sports. We also have coaches that hold high academic expectations and support the use of athletic and campus resources."Not far behind at 3.25 was women's cross country, a team that advanced to the NCAA Division II National Championships for the first time since 1985.
The CPP women's basketball program, led by first-year head coach
Danelle Bishop, also combined for an amazing year both academically and athletically. The Broncos posted a GPA of 3.18 while reaching the Elite Eight for the first time in nine years.
Women's track and field saw two of its members earn a spot at the NCAA D-II National Championships held in Turlock, Calif., as the entire squad maintained a 3.11 GPA throughout the 2010-11 year.
Men's cross country proved itself as an academic and athletic contender as well, turning in a strong performance at the NCAA West Region Championships in snowy Bellingham, Wash., and recording a GPA of 3.09 through the last three quarters.
