Seven members of the North Dakota Fighting Hawks cross country and track teams have been named to the College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District teams for their achievements both academically and athletically. The honorees include Frida Giersdorff, Matej Hrebacka, Jadyn Keeler, Julia Matthews, Cailey Moton, Anya Williams, and Shane Zierden. Notably, Keeler is a finalist for the CSC Academic All-America award, to be announced on July 15. This recognition highlights outstanding performances on the field as well as in the classroom, with a focus on academic excellence among student-athletes. The recognition underscores the Fighting Hawks' strong season and commitment to academic success.

By the Numbers
  • Frida Giersdorff holds a GPA of 3.94 and set personal bests in multiple events, including 5k (17:40.6) and 6k (21:11.9).
  • Jadyn Keeler graduated with a GPA of 3.97 and secured All-American honors in multiple events, contributing to 6 Summit League championships.
  • Moton recorded a PR of 61-9 3/4 (18.84m) in the weight throw, leading to an NCAA West Preliminary Round bid.
Yes, But

While the accolades showcase individual achievements, it also raises questions about the sustainability of such performances. Will the Fighting Hawks maintain this level of excellence as they transition into future seasons? The mix of senior departures and rising talent will play a crucial role moving forward.

State of Play
  • The Fighting Hawks' cross-country and track teams are experiencing commendable success during the 2025-26 season.
  • Seven athletes have been recognized for their academic and athletic performances, reflecting the depth of talent in the program.
What's Next

The CSC Academic All-America announcement on July 15 will highlight further achievements, particularly for finalist Jadyn Keeler. Continued success in recruiting will be vital to sustain performance levels, as current stars graduate and new talent joins the team.

Bottom Line

The recognition of these seven Fighting Hawks underscores the importance of balancing academics and athletics. As they continue to excel, it's essential to foster a culture that nurtures both athletic talent and academic dedication to ensure ongoing success for the program.