LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Five Norfolk State University softball players have been named National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) Division I All-America Scholar-Athletes.

Seniors Tuli Iosefa and Gabby Vaughan along with junior Alexis Robinson and freshmen Kenna Higa and Lauren Sheehan were all honored by the NFCA as part of the recent awards announced by the NFCA.

"I am beyond impressed with the way these young ladies have performed not only on the field but in the classroom," said softball assistant coach Carrie Hoeft and team academic coordinator. "Dealing with the rigors of a collegiate softball season while maintain a high level of academic success requires an unwavering commitment to excellence in all their endeavors. We are proud to have these ladies represent NSU softball and be a strong example for our future Spartans!"

In addition to this academic honor, Iosefa was named the MEAC Player of the Year as well as First Team All-MEAC. Higa was selected as the MEAC Co-Rookie of the Year as well as First Team All-MEAC while Vaughan was a third Spartan named to the top MEAC post-season squad. Robinson, who went 17-5 in the circle, was named Second-Team All-MEAC.

To earn the honors, a student-athlete must have earned a 3.5 grade-point average or higher for the 2021-22 academic year. The five Spartans were the only athletes from any of the MEAC's eight softball institutions to be honored with the award.