NEW ORLEANS, La. -- The Northwest Missouri State men's and women's cross country teams, along with six individual athletes, were named to the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association's All-Academic team for their exceptional accomplishments in both academics and athletics, announced Thursday afternoon.
 
Under the leadership of head coach Wick Cunningham, the Northwest Missouri State men's and women's cross country teams were both recognized with USTFCCCA All-Academic recognition. The Bearcat women achieved a 3.77 GPA, ranking No. 16 in Division II this fall, while also earning an eighth-place finish at the 2024 Central Region Championships in Joplin, Mo. The Bearcat men's team posted a 3.46 GPA, ranking No. 36, claiming a runner-up finish with 76 points, marking their best regional result since 2019.

In order to qualify for All-Academic distinction, teams must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, including the most recent grading period, and compile a team score at their respective regional championship meet, among other qualifiers.
 
The Bearcat women had four individuals receive All-Academic recognition: Olivia Bakker, Mayson Hartley, Lydia McGlocklin, and Alyna Thibault. On the men's side, Drew Atkins and Riley Witt gained All-Academic honors. 

In order to qualify for All-Academic distinction, student-athletes must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.25 on a 4.0 scale and finish in the top-30 percent of their respective regional championship meet, among other qualifiers.
 
USTFCCCA ALL-ACADEMIC DIVISION II TEAM – WOMEN
Olivia Bakker (Overland Park, Kan.) - Psychology
Mayson Hartley (Clarinda, Iowa) – Foods and Nutrition: Dietetics
Lydia McGlocklin (Olathe, Kan.) – Finance: Financial Management
Alyna Thibault (Blue Springs, Mo.) – Strategic Advertising
 
USTFCCCA ALL-ACADEMIC DIVISION II TEAM - MEN
Drew Atkins (Kansas City, Mo.) – Computer Science
Riley Witt (Osage, Iowa) – Applied Heath: Exercise Science