Six UTEP track and field student-athletes were recognized in the 2026 College Sports Communicators Academic All-District庐 Team. The honorees include Sebastian Avena, Alex Brown, Sarah Dovenbarger, Samahri Foster, Andres Gurrola, and Zacarias Velasquez, who demonstrated outstanding academic and athletic achievements throughout the season. UTEP head coach Francesca Green highlighted their dedication, emphasizing the importance of balancing academics and sports at the Division I level. Each athlete maintained impressive GPAs while contributing notably to their respective events during competitions.

By the Numbers
  • Sebastian Avena: 3.98 GPA, performed in 14 meets.
  • Zacarias Velasquez: 3.89 GPA, participated in 14 meets; earned long jump victories at the Miners Invitational and Sun City Classic.
State of Play
  • All six athletes contributed in various events, showcasing versatility and skill.
  • UTEP track and field claims several members on the Conference USA All-Academic team, reflecting strong academic performances across the board.
What's Next

With their latest accolades, these student-athletes are likely to continue excelling both in their academic pursuits and athletic competitions in the upcoming season. Their recognition may inspire future recruits and reinforce UTEP's commitment to developing holistic student-athletes.

Bottom Line

UTEP's track and field program is setting a strong precedent for excellence, showcasing that success in academics and athletics can go hand in hand, reinforcing the value of hard work and dedication in both arenas.