SXU Student-Athlete Named to CCAC All-Academic Team for Third Time
The Saint Xavier University (SXU) women's basketball team had nine student-athletes named to the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference (CCAC) All-Academic Team. The team had the most of any school in the conference, led by senior guard Lia Chudzik, who earned her third All-Academic Team selection.
To be eligible, a student-athlete must maintain a 3.25 grade point average (GPA) and be enrolled at their current institution for at least one calendar year. Chudzik currently sits with a 3.94 GPA as a digital marketing and business management major. She finds that planning and clear communication with professors and coaches have been the keys to success these past four years.
"It feels really great for my teammates and me to be recognized for all the hard work we have done this year. I have found that preparation and time management are the most important things for me. I plan out due dates and when I should complete my assignments around games and traveling. Planning and communication have also helped me keep my professors updated on whether I need to miss classes for games. This also keeps me on track and always aware of assignments," Chudzik said.
Finding the right balance between basketball and academics was of utmost importance to Chudzik when entering college. Saint Xavier University Athletics promotes a healthy environment, allowing student-athletes to get the academic support they need while on the road and away from campus.
"Our team and staff do a really great job of having open communication when it comes to academics. If there are ever questions or concerns regarding grades, classes, etc., we are encouraged to go to our coaches for help. We are also given study session options with our teammates," Chudzik said.
With Commencement approaching, Chudzik has her eyes set on a marketing career. Upon taking business classes at SXU early on in her collegiate journey, she found a passion for the creativity marketing allows. While succeeding on the court and keeping her eyes on her future endeavors, Chudzik has also been named an NAIA Scholar-Athlete twice.
"Early in my freshman year, I found my interest in marketing through the introductory business classes. I really enjoy the creative and strategic aspects of it. After graduation, I want to follow this interest and pursue a marketing position," Chudzik said.
Chudzik and four other seniors on the team were recognized during Senior Day in early February. With an 18-11 record, the Cougars will wait to see if they claim one of the 64 spots in the NAIA Women's Basketball National Championship First Round on March 5.