Five student-athletes from Southeastern Louisiana University's beach volleyball team earned spots on the Southland Conference All-Academic team, showcasing their academic and athletic excellence. The team, known as the Sandy Lions, achieved a 3.44 cumulative GPA and finished the season with a record of 17-16, breaking program records in both single-season wins and SLC Pair of the Week honors. Key athletes include Elizabeth Hardouin, Makayla Hicks, Mia McKinney, Cadie Kusy, and Carley Petty, each achieving impressive academic performance alongside strong contributions on the court.

By the Numbers
  • Sandy Lions finished the season with a 3.44 cumulative GPA.
  • Team achieved a record of 17 wins in a single season, with a 4-2 conference record.
Yes, But

While individual accolades and team success highlight achievements, maintaining this level of performance poses a challenge for future seasons, especially as the team seeks to build on its inaugural playoff breakthrough.

State of Play
  • Hardouin and her partner set a new record for single-season wins.
  • Hicks, a graduate senior, secured significant wins over ranked teams like LSU and Tulane, demonstrating the competitive edge of the Sandy Lions.
What's Next

Expect the team to leverage their successful season as a platform for recruitment and development, aiming to enhance both their academic and competitive profiles while keeping an eye on continuing their recent historic progress.

Bottom Line

Success in both academics and athletics underscores the Sandy Lions' potential; sustaining this momentum could solidify their reputation in the conference and attract new talent while continuing to cultivate a strong team culture.