ASHEVILLE, NC – The UNC Asheville men's soccer team is celebrating a significant achievement both on and off the field, as six of its players have been named to the College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District® team. The announcement, made earlier this week, recognizes student-athletes who have excelled in the classroom while also making substantial contributions to their respective teams.
The six Bulldogs honored are leading scorer Jake Stone, defensive stalwart Sam Presser, midfield maestro Charlie Farrar, goalkeeper Charlie Carter, and promising young talents Miles Drayton and Finnigan Hughes. Their selection highlights the program’s commitment to fostering well-rounded individuals who prioritize academic success alongside athletic prowess.
To be eligible for the Academic All-District® award, student-athletes must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 or higher, must have participated in at least 50% of the team's games, and must be at least a sophomore academically and athletically.
"This is a tremendous honor for our program and a testament to the hard work and dedication of these young men," said UNC Asheville Head Coach Mick Giordano. "They represent the best of what it means to be a student-athlete, balancing the demands of a rigorous academic schedule with the commitment required to compete at the Division I level. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments."
Jake Stone, a junior forward, led the team in goals this season and maintains an impressive GPA in business administration. His on-field performance, coupled with his academic achievements, made him a clear choice for the award. Stone expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, "It's an honor to be recognized for my academic efforts alongside my contributions to the soccer team. It’s a challenge, but I try to balance my responsibilities and always give my best in both areas."
Sam Presser, a senior defender, has been a cornerstone of the Bulldogs' defense for the past four years. Known for his leadership and consistent play, Presser also boasts a stellar academic record in environmental studies. Coach Giordano praised Presser's leadership, highlighting that "Sam embodies everything we look for in a student-athlete. He's a leader on the field and a dedicated student in the classroom."
Charlie Farrar, a sophomore midfielder, has quickly established himself as a key player for the Bulldogs. His creative playmaking and work ethic have earned him accolades both on and off the field, as he majors in mathematics with a minor in computer science.
Charlie Carter, a sophomore goalkeeper, has demonstrated consistent improvement throughout the season. Beyond the field, he is pursuing a degree in health and wellness promotion, showing a commitment to holistic well-being.
Rounding out the honorees are Miles Drayton and Finnigan Hughes, both showcasing significant potential early in their careers. Drayton, a freshman midfielder, brings a dynamic presence to the team while pursuing a degree in psychology. Hughes, a freshman defender, has already made a notable impact on the back line while focusing on his studies in biology.
The Academic All-District® honorees now advance to the CSC Academic All-America® ballot. First-, second- and third-team Academic All-America® honorees will be announced in late December. This next stage of selection considers all Academic All-District honorees across the nation, adding an extra layer of prestige to the potential recognition.
This accomplishment reflects the broader academic environment at UNC Asheville, which emphasizes the importance of scholarly achievement in conjunction with athletic success. The university consistently strives to provide its student-athletes with the resources and support necessary to excel in all areas of their lives.
The UNC Asheville men's soccer team has had a season of highs and lows, but this recent recognition provides a positive note as they look towards the future. The six Academic All-District® selections serve as an inspiration to their teammates and a demonstration of the program’s commitment to developing well-rounded individuals.
