Hodges, Frazer named Crush Scholar Athletes of the Year; Torch of Excellence honors 38 Student Athletes

Clovis Crush student athletes not only excel on the field but in the classroom as well. The 24^th annual Kiwanis Torch of Excellence Awards banquet that honors top scholar athletes in the area was originally scheduled for April 27 but because of COVID-19 concerns, those recognized will be honored virtually this year.

"The Torch of Excellence occurs annually to celebrate the academic achievements of student-athletes within the Athletics Departments at Clovis Community College, Reedley College and Fresno City College." said Pamm Zierfuss-Hubbard, Director of Athletics, Clovis Community College. "In order to qualify, student-athletes must have earned a 3.2 GPA or higher for at least one semester in the 2019 calendar year. Clovis Community College is proud to celebrate the 38 student-athletes who met this academic standard including five who achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA in both the spring and fall semesters. These student-athletes are superstars and deserve to be recognized for their academic achievements. I congratulate each of their achievements and proud that they represent Clovis Crush Athletics."

Named Female Scholar Athlete of Year was Karlee Hodges of the women's soccer team while Male Scholar Athlete of the Year honors went to Seth Frazier from the men's cross country team.

Hodges was one of five to earn the Chancellor's Award of Distinction, earning a 4.0 GPA during the spring and fall 2019 semesters. On the soccer field, she was named a second-team All-Central Valley Conference after helping lead the Crush to its first-ever CVC championship.

"Karlee is the type of player every coach dreams of," said Crush women's soccer head coach Orlando Ramirez. "She is driven in the classroom, dedicated on the field, encouraging, and a natural leader. She has represented our institution and soccer program in the truest form and will no doubt have a lasting impact on others and her community."

Frazer was a President's Scholar (3.51-4.0 GPA) and played a key role on the men's cross country team that placed 11^th overall at the CCCAA State Championships.

"After taking a year off from running after high school, Seth trained really hard over summer. He worked a ton as well and still managed to train at a very high level and maintain a 4.0 GPA. He was a natural leader and really kept everyone together. He was either our No. 2 or 3 runner the whole year and finished the season as a member of the all-conference team." said Crush cross country head coach CJ Albertson.

Other honors included Dean's Recognition (3.2-3.5 grade point average), President's Scholar (3.51-4.0 GPA), and the Chancellor's Award of Distinction (4.0 GPA for both semesters).