Two Mustang softball student-athletes were recognized by the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference for their work on the field and in the classroom. Junior catcher Kaitlynn Barnes (Phoenix, AZ, Deer Valley High School) was placed on the RMAC First Team All-Academic. Sophomore pitcher Arriel Smith (Oakhurst, CA, Yosemite High School) was placed on the honor roll. Both are nursing majors at WNMU.

To qualify for Academic All-RMAC, student-athletes must have a GPA of 3.30 or better, be a starter or reserve, and completed two consecutive semesters or three quarters at their current institution. Graduate students must have earned a 3.30 in their undergrad and graduate classes. The listed GPA is what the student-athletes had earned prior to softball season beginning. RMAC Sports Information Directors at schools that sponsor the sport of softball selected First and Second Team Academic All-RMAC.

Barnes is currently the Mustangs' second best offensive player. With a batting average of .389, she is second on the team in hits (56), RBIs (35), homeruns (11), and total bases (99). In all of those categories, she ranks in the top 10 in the RMAC. Barnes also leads WNMU in walks (14) and stolen bases (11-13). Of her 144 opportunities at the plate, she has struck out only six times, which is the least on the team.

Smith has made 16 appearances in the pitching circle, posting a 5.15 ERA. She has thrown three complete games. Smith's one win came at New Mexico Highlands last week after relieving Emily Huhta (Albuquerque, NM, Manzano High School, Lamar Community College). She faced seven batters and struck out three and received the win before Smith too was replaced. Bri Robles (Mesa, AZ, Mesa High School, Phoenix College) closed out the game in Highlands' last at-bats.

Barnes came into the spring semester with a 3.67 GPA while Smith posted a 3.76 GPA.

Click here for the complete RMAC release.