Mercy University celebrates five student-athletes as Athletic Solutions ECC Scholar-Athletes of the Year across different sports. Emily Marino, Gabriela Bieniek, Sarah Lill Hanks, Grace Lesko, and Cole Hunsberger all achieved a GPA of at least 3.50, a pivotal role on their teams, and were recognized for their significant contributions. This marks the most recipients from a single school within the ECC. Each athlete has not only excelled academically but also contributed to their teams' successes in championships and tournaments.

By the Numbers
  • Five Mercy athletes received the Scholar-Athlete of the Year honors, the highest for any school in the ECC.
  • All recipients hold a GPA of at least 3.50, with individual GPAs of 3.87 (Marino), 3.94 (Bieniek), 3.96 (Hanks), 3.67 (Lesko), and 3.93 (Hunsberger).
State of Play
  • Marino was recognized for her contributions as a defender, showcasing leadership while playing all 20 games.
  • Bieniek led her volleyball team with 401 kills, helping secure a championship for Mercy for the first time since 2001.
  • Hanks played a critical role in soccer, contributing to the team's NCAA tournament success.
  • Lesko's achievements on the basketball court included breaking a school record with 551 points in one season.
  • Hunsberger led the lacrosse team in scoring, being recognized as one of the standout players in the conference.
What's Next

Looking ahead, these student-athletes will continue their academic and athletic careers, potentially influencing their respective programs next season. Increased recognition may boost recruitment efforts for their teams, attracting new talent and raising the overall profile of Mercy University's athletic programs.

Bottom Line

The recognition of Mercy athletes not only highlights their individual accomplishments but also underscores the institution's commitment to academic and athletic excellence. These achievements may inspire future student-athletes within the ECC, enhancing the competitive landscape and fostering a culture of success at Mercy.