Sophomore Gabriel Castro and junior Alex Pons from Southern New Hampshire University’s men's soccer team have been named to the CSC Academic All-District Team, recognizing their athletic and academic excellence. Castro, an aeronautical engineering major with a 3.88 GPA, has made significant contributions on the field, scoring five goals and assisting once, whereas Pons, a business administration major with a 3.91 GPA, has played all matches while excelling defensively for the sixth-ranked team. Both players also received D2CCA East All-Region and NE10 All-Conference First Team honors this season. They are contenders for the Academic All-America ballot, with final results due on December 16. The Penmen are set to compete against Gannon University this Saturday in the NCAA Championship national quarterfinals.

By the Numbers
  • Gabriel Castro: 5 goals, 1 assist, 3.88 GPA
  • Alex Pons: 1 goal, 4 assists, 3.91 GPA
Yes, But

Both players face tough competition for the Academic All-America accolades, with numerous talented student-athletes in the running. While their academic achievements are commendable, only a select few will ultimately be recognized at the national level on December 16.

State of Play
  • Southern New Hampshire University men’s soccer team currently ranks sixth nationally.
  • The team is preparing to host Gannon University in the NCAA Championship quarterfinals this Saturday.
What's Next

If successful against Gannon, the Penmen will advance in the NCAA Championship, further heightening excitement around Castro and Pons' potential to receive national recognition.

Bottom Line

Castro and Pons exemplify the dual commitment of student-athletes to academics and athletics, making their recognition not just a personal achievement but a testament to Southern New Hampshire University’s philosophy of excellence.