ST. MARY-OF-THE-WOODS, Ind. — Eight student-athletes from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College have been recognized as 2026 NAIA Scholar-Athletes by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, honoring their excellence in the classroom and in competition.
The NAIA Scholar-Athlete distinction recognizes student-athletes who maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, appear on the eligibility certificate for their sport, and have attended their institution for at least one full year.
Representing the Pomeroys on this year's list are:
Women's Basketball
Men's Basketball
- Benjamin Chestnut (Sophomore)
- Jayden Moore (Junior)
- Malachi Pearson (Senior)
- Taylen Absher (Sophomore)
All eight honorees compete in the River States Conference and represent the continued academic strength of SMWC's basketball programs.
Nationally, women's basketball led all winter sports with 926 scholar-athletes recognized, followed by men's basketball with 659. Men's wrestling (265), competitive cheer (214), and women's swimming & diving (204) rounded out the top five sports represented this winter season.
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College remains committed to developing well-rounded student-athletes who thrive both on the court and in the classroom. The eight honorees exemplify the Pomeroy standard of academic excellence and competitive dedication.
For more information on SMWC Athletics, visit SMWCAthletics.com.
