Track and Field Shines Bright: Five Broncos Earn Spots on CSC Academic All-District Team
KALAMAZOO, Mich. — The excitement is palpable as the 2025 College Sports Communicators Academic All-District Team has officially recognized outstanding academic and athletic performance, and five talented athletes from Western Michigan University are leading the charge!
Celebrating Academic Excellence in Sports
The selection of these remarkable student-athletes highlights the perfect balance of scholarship and athletic prowess. To qualify for this prestigious honor, athletes must maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher while ranking in the top 50 of their region in an individual event throughout the cross country and track and field season.
Meet the Broncos: Champions of the Classroom and Track
Lane Hagens: A Dual Threat
With a 3.64 GPA, Lane Hagens is making waves not just in the classroom but also in the indoor shot put, where she ranks among the top 50 in the region. Hagens, who is pursuing a degree in Psychology, continues to impress as a back-to-back honoree, reaffirming her commitment to both her academics and athletics.
Tess Van Dyk: Science and Success
Joining Hagens in the shot put arena is Tess Van Dyk, who boasts an impressive 3.89 GPA while studying Exercise Science. Like Hagens, Van Dyk has consistently pushed her limits, proving that determination in sports can go hand-in-hand with academic excellence.
The Distance Dynamos
Lily Overton: The Steeplechase Star
Lily Overton, with a stellar 3.70 GPA in Exercise Science, is not just fast on her feet but also dedicated to her studies. A key contender in the 3,000-meter steeplechase, Overton’s blend of speed and intelligence makes her a valuable asset to the Broncos.
Madison Zarembski: Education Meets Athletics
With a keen passion for Elementary Education and a GPA of 3.70, Madison Zarembski stands out as another formidable distance runner. Also ranking in the top 50 in the steeplechase, her academic and athletic achievements serve as an inspiration to her peers.
Lillian Zelasko: Cross Country Champion
Last but definitely not least, Lillian Zelasko shines as a dedicated Political Science major with a 3.70 GPA. Zelasko secured All-Region honors in cross country and ranked top 50 in both the 5K and 10K this season, showcasing her versatility on the track.
Looking Ahead
All five Broncos have not only made significant contributions at the MAC Championships but also have the eligibility to return next season, promising even more exhilarating performances on the horizon.
These outstanding athletes are not just building their resumes; they are setting examples of what it means to be a student-athlete. As they bring the same level of passion that defined their past seasons, the future looks bright for both the Broncos and their dedicated supporters.
For further insights into these incredible athletes, check out their profiles at WMU Broncos. Let’s continue to cheer for their journey as they strive for excellence both in the classroom and on the track!
