Maddy Gruender, a graduate student from Mill Valley, California, has been awarded an NCAA postgraduate scholarship. She holds program records in four individual events and five relays at UC Santa Cruz and is recognized for her academic and athletic excellence. Gruender is among 42 recipients of the $10,000 scholarship, supporting graduate studies for accomplished student-athletes. As the first Banana Slug to qualify for NCAA Championships since 2017, her achievements highlight her dedication both in and out of the pool.

By the Numbers
  • Gruender is a record holder in 37 top-10 listings at UC Santa Cruz.
  • A total of 126 NCAA postgraduate scholarships are awarded annually to student-athletes across divisions.
State of Play
  • Gruender qualified for the NCAA Championships in 2022, marking a significant milestone for her program.
  • She was part of the 400 free relay team in the 2023-24 season, contributing to her team's competitive legacy.
What's Next

As Gruender embarks on her graduate studies, she may influence future NCAA participants and continue inspiring peers through her academic and athletic pursuits. Expectations for her to pursue further achievements in both realms remain high.

Bottom Line

Gruender's recognition underscores the importance of balancing academic success with athletic performance. Her achievements may serve as a beacon for future student-athletes aspiring to excel in both areas.