Dalton State’s Kylie Gray has been named to the 2025 SSAC Women’s Cross Country Scholar-Athlete Team, highlighting her exceptional achievements both academically and athletically. The announcement was made by the Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC) in Montgomery, Alabama, recognizing Gray as one of only three student-athletes to maintain a perfect 4.0 GPA.
Selection for the Scholar-Athlete Team requires a combination of academic excellence and athletic performance. Every member must have finished in the top 13 at the SSAC Championship, thus earning All-Conference honors. Gray’s remarkable consistency is underscored by her performance on the course, where she recorded a season-best time of 19:10 in the 5K at the NAIA Appalachian Challenge. Additionally, she achieved a personal best of 23:27 in the 6K at both the SSAC Championship and the UAH Charger Invitational.
Gray’s Academic and Athletic Highlights
Beyond her academic accolades, Gray demonstrated her athletic prowess throughout the fall season. Her top finish was a commendable fourth place at the Mountainside Stride, while she also secured a 43rd place finish at the NAIA Appalachian Challenge. These results showcase her competitive spirit and dedication to her sport.
The Scholar-Athlete of the Year honor was awarded to Kristina Stojanovic from William Carey, further emphasizing the high level of talent and achievement among the honorees. The SSAC prioritizes the holistic development of its athletes, and this recognition reflects the commitment of student-athletes like Gray to excel in both their studies and their sport.
Eligibility Criteria for the Scholar-Athlete Team
To qualify for the SSAC Scholar-Athlete Team, student-athletes must be sophomores or above in their academic and athletic careers, be key contributors to their teams, and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.3. Additionally, they must have participated in at least 50% of their team’s competitions. Graduate students and transfers are required to have completed one semester at their current institution.
Kylie Gray’s selection to the SSAC Women’s Cross Country Scholar-Athlete Team not only highlights her individual achievements but also serves as an inspiration to her peers, showcasing the balance of academic commitment and competitive excellence.
