Makena Ginoza: A Shining Star in Athletics and Academics
NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship Awarded to Ginoza
HONOLULU — The University of Hawai’i’s own Makena Ginoza has made waves in both academics and athletics by being honored with the prestigious NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship. This recognition highlights not only Ginoza’s prowess in the pool but also his commitment to excellence in the classroom.
Celebrating Academic and Athletic Excellence
The NCAA recently announced that 42 outstanding student-athletes across winter sports have been awarded a $10,000 scholarship as part of its Postgraduate Scholarship program. These scholarships are reserved for those who have exemplified academic achievement, athletic success, and community leadership. Ginoza’s selection among these elite peers underscores his dedication to all facets of student life.
The Significance of the NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship
Each year, the NCAA grants 126 postgraduate scholarships to student-athletes who have completed their athletic eligibility. These awards are disbursed three times a year—fall, winter, and spring—ensuring that both men and women have equal opportunities. The scholarship is a one-time, nonrenewable funding opportunity, aimed at supporting graduate studies at accredited institutions. This commitment by the NCAA reflects its ongoing support for student-athletes transitioning from their competitive careers to advanced education.
Ginoza’s Stellar Performance in the Pool
In the 2022-2023 swimming season, Ginoza demonstrated exceptional talent and determination. Competing in two standout events, he not only showcased his athletic skills but also secured multiple podium finishes. As a key member of the 200 medley relay team, Ginoza swam the anchor leg with an impressive time of 22.80 seconds, ultimately leading his team to secure gold against Whitman.
Towering Achievements at Major Meets
Ginoza continued to shine at the Harvard-Arkansas tri-meet, where he exhibited incredible versatility by finishing second in two events: the 400 IM with a time of 4:22.89 and the 500 freestyle at 4:49.03. His ability to compete at such high levels further solidifies his status as one of Hawai’i’s premier athletes.
A Bright Future Ahead
With this NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship, Ginoza has opened the door to further academic pursuits while simultaneously leaving a lasting legacy in the swimming community. His journey is a testament to the idea that athletic achievement and academic excellence can go hand in hand.
Join the Celebration of Excellence!
Follow Ginoza and the University of Hawai’i swimming team’s journey through #HawaiiSwimDive as they aim to inspire the next generation of student-athletes. Together, let’s celebrate the incredible accomplishments that define excellence in collegiate sports!
For more stories on remarkable student-athletes, explore the NCAA’s official site for updates on scholarship programs and athlete achievements.
