Academic Excellence: 32 Pioneers Named 2026 NAIA Scholar-Athletes
Spartanburg Methodist College proudly recognizes 32 student-athletes who have been named 2026 NAIA Scholar-Athletes for spring sports. The annual NAIA Scholar-Athlete distinction honors student-athletes who demonstrate excellence both in the classroom and in competition across NAIA institutions nationwide.
The award recognizes student-athletes competing in spring sports—including baseball, softball, men’s and women’s golf, track & field, tennis, flag football, beach volleyball, men’s volleyball, and lacrosse—who meet rigorous academic and eligibility standards.
To qualify as an NAIA Scholar-Athlete, student-athletes must maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, appear on their institution’s eligibility certificate for their sport, and have completed at least one full year at their current institution.
This year’s Spartanburg Methodist College honorees include:
- Adeline Todd (Women’s Golf)
- Adriana Stump-Frias (Softball)
- Alex Stuckey (Softball)
- Anna Altman (Track & Field)
- Antonio Montenora (Men’s Golf)
- Bailey Kiser (Softball)
- Brook Noe (Beach Volleyball)
- Calvin Kowalke (Track & Field)
- Carson Glenn (Baseball)
- Carson McCowan (Softball)
- Cole Montgomery (Baseball)
- Dario Astudillo (Baseball)
- Elijah Franz (Baseball)
- Gracelyn Toler (Women’s Golf)
- Hana Vucinic (Beach Volleyball)
- Hunter Lancaster (Baseball)
- Isabella Marz (Women’s Golf)
- Jackson Welch (Men’s Golf)
- Gracie Starnes (Softball)
- Peyton Gardner (Baseball)
- Katherine James (Beach Volleyball)
- Kyla Quiles (Softball)
- Lydia Faulk (Softball)
- Maddie Handy (Softball)
- Melanie Meredith (Women’s Golf)
- Rebekah Martin (Beach Volleyball)
- Savannah Evans (Softball)
- Steven Strange (Track & Field)
- Thatcher Baughman (Baseball)
- Travis Dannecker (Baseball)
- Tucker Simon (Men’s Golf)
These student-athletes exemplify the commitment, discipline, and academic achievement that define Spartanburg Methodist College athletics.
