Gymnastics posts second highest GPA in the nation

Contact: Deanne Puca
August 2, 2018
Photo of the WMU Gymnastics team huddled in a group together celebrating.
WMU gymnastics team members have finished in the top 10 for GPA nationally the past seven years.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University's gymnastics team achieved the second-highest grade point average in the nation for the 2017-18 academic year, according to the Women's Collegiate Gymnastics Association. As a team, the Broncos carried a 3.793 GPA, marking the seventh straight year WMU has finished in the top 10 nationally. Individually, 14 Bronco gymnasts earned Scholastic All-America Awards.

"Every year we set the bar high in the classroom, in the gym and in the community," commented WMU head coach Penny Jernigan. "I am especially proud of these 14 women for their commitment to our standards of excellence. As a full-time Division I student-athlete, the time demands that are placed on them are extraordinary. So, for them to perform at such a high level nationally every year is a testimony to their hard work and dedication. I am very proud of them and proud of the culture of our program."

WMU once again had the highest GPA among Mid-American Conference institutions, marking the seventh straight season to lead the league. The second-place finish ties the 2013 season for highest mark in program history when the Broncos posted a 3.8086 GPA.

Western Michigan also had 87.5 percent of its roster earn a 3.5 GPA or better, which led to 14 of its student-athletes named WCGA Scholastic All-Americans. Representing the Broncos include Alexis Olivier, Alliah Harrison, Amelia MohlerDominique MilitelloJackie YatesJessica JuncajKatie JenningsKendall CarlsonKira HoyMorgan SpenceRachael UnderwoodRachel BinkleySarah Shirley and Taylor Buis.

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