COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) recently announced its 2024 All-American Athlete Strength and Conditioning Athlete of the Year Award recipients, with 10 Norwich University student-athletes receiving recognition from the NSCA.  The award recognizes their athletic accomplishments and dedication to strength and conditioning.  Nominated by Coach Scott Caulfield of Norwich, the honorees' determination to improve in athletics while maintaining academic prominence is a great model for all student-athletes at Norwich University.

"We are proud to have (these student-athletes) join the NSCA in its mission to safely improve athletic performance," says Eric McMahon, NSCA's Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager.  "Supporting our student-athletes guarantees a stronger future for the NSCA."

The 10 athletes include Tyler Callahan (Arlington, Mass.) of the baseball team, Leocadia Clark (Stowe, Vt.) of the women's hockey team, Joshua Ducharme (Tyngsboro, Mass.) of the wrestling team, Zach Kirka (Potsdam, N.Y.) of the football team, Addison Reil (East Barre, Vt.) of the women's lacrosse team, Sam Lebruska (Lynnfield, Mass.) of the volleyball team, Mitchell McKay (Lynnfield, Mass.) of the men's lacrosse team, Patrick O'Neal (Indiana, Pa.) of the men's hockey team, Hunter Puleo (Hanover, Mass.) of the men's rugby team, and Andrew White (Walpole, Mass.) of the football team.

Caulfield supported the NSCA's selections with quotes on each of his honorees.

On Callahan, Caulfield said, "I wholeheartedly believe that this exceptional individual, with their unwavering dedication and outstanding performance, unquestionably merits recognition as an NSCA All-American.  It is athletes like them, who consistently push the boundaries and demonstrate excellence, that play a pivotal role in not only raising the bar in collegiate athletics but also in serving as sources of inspiration for aspiring young talents, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and excel in their athletic endeavors.

About Clark, "Leo does not only shine during competitions but also serves as a pillar of inspiration during practice sessions where her hard-working nature and leadership qualities come to the forefront," Caulfield said.  "Her persistent dedication and focus have fostered a positive and competitive environment that raises the performance bar for the entire team."

Regarding Ducharme, Caulfield said, "Given their remarkable achievements and exceptional qualities, I wholeheartedly endorse the recognition of this outstanding individual as an NSCA All-American.  Their steadfast commitment to their sport and remarkable sportsmanship, resilience, and excellence, serving as an inspiration for countless young talents to aspire to greatness and pursue their athletic ambitions with zeal."

On Kirka, "This exceptional athlete not only excels under the spotlight of competitions but also stands out as a beacon of inspiration in the quieter moments of practice sessions," Caulfield said.  "It is in these practice sessions that their unwavering work ethic and remarkable leadership qualities truly shine through.  Their consistent dedication to self-improvement and ability to maintain focus have been instrumental in cultivating a nurturing and competitive atmosphere that sets a higher standard for performance across the entire team."

Discussing Reil, Caulfield said, "I wholeheartedly support the nomination of this individual for the presitigious title of NSCA All-American.  Athletes of their caliber not only raise the bar in collegiate sports but also serve as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring young talents striving for excellence."

Caulfield on Lebruska, said, "Her unyielding commitment to early morning practices, a tireless work ethic that sees her pushing through fatigue, and unwavering self-discipline in maintaining a balanced lifestyle exemplify what a standout athlete should embody.  She has displayed a singular determination to better themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally, fostering a supportive environment that elevates their performance and that of their teammates.  Every day, she shows up ready to push the boundaries of their abilities, constantly striving for excellence and setting a benchmark for skill, sportsmanship, and camaraderie."

About McKay, "Mitch has faced adversity with injuries throughout his college journey, yet he has consistently maintained a positive outlook and a determined work ethic," Caulfield said.  "His resilience and optimism are inspiring and have a ripple effect, making him a genuine leader both on and off the field."

Caulfield's thoughts on O'Neal include, "Over the course of 85 games, he consistently demonstrated not only exceptional skill but also an undeniable passion for excellence.  With a remarkable tally of 14 goals and 25 assists, his contributions on the field have been invaluable to our team's success.  Beyond their impressive statistics, his personal qualities genuinely set them apart.  His unyielding commitment, tireless work ethic, and self-discipline exemplify what a standout athlete should be.  He has displayed a singular determination to better himself and his teammates daily, pushing the boundaries of their abilities and setting a benchmark for sportsmanship."

Regarding Puleo, the only rugby athlete to be honored by the NSCA, Caulfield said, "His exceptional personal qualities truly distinguish him.  With unwavering commitment, relentless work ethic, and self-discipline, he embodies the epitome of an outstanding athlete.  Demonstrating unparalleled determination to enhance himself and his teammates daily, he consistently pushes the limits of their abilities, establishing a standard for sportsmanship."

Rounding out the honorees, Caulfield shared on White, "Andrew has become a leader in the weight room and the field as he has allowed his attention to detail in physical preparation serve as his guiding light.  He had become a welcome addition to his teammates as he's able to help them improve themselves as he has over the past four years."

This marks the third-straight year where the Norwich Strength and Conditioning department has received All-American Athlete Strength and Conditioning Athlete of the Year Award recognition.