McLean County Times

Seven members of the Illinois Wesleyan University men's tennis team have been recognized as Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) Scholar-Athletes. The team has also received the ITA All-Academic Team Award, announced on July 12 in Tempe, Arizona.

The honored players include senior Carter Burk, juniors Evan Turnbull, Joshua Cortez, and Jordan Sibley-Diggs, sophomore Zeke Cross, and freshmen Griffin Hammond and Ben Vigneri. To qualify for the Scholar-Athlete Award, students must maintain a GPA of at least 3.5 during the academic year. For a team to be designated as an All-Academic Team, it must achieve a collective GPA of at least 3.2.

Carter Burk graduated with a degree in business administration and was part of IWU's No. 1 doubles team last season. He finished with a singles record of 10-17 and earned this award for the second consecutive year.

Evan Turnbull had a strong junior year with an overall singles record of 15-10 while playing mostly at No. 5 singles. He also achieved a doubles record of 12-10.

Jordan Sibley-Diggs won his match at No. 5 singles and received the award for the second time in two years.

Joshua Cortez is recognized for the third consecutive season as he compiled records in both doubles and singles play.

Zeke Cross participated mainly at No. 6 singles and No. 3 doubles with records reflecting his contributions to both categories.

Griffin Hammond ended his first year with an impressive combined record in both singles and doubles matches.

Ben Vigneri made notable contributions as well with his performances earning him recognition within the conference.

Illinois Wesleyan University was one among three CCIW institutions receiving this accolade alongside Augustana College, Carthage College, and Wheaton College. Seven out of thirty-six players from CCIW who were named Scholar-Athletes came from IWU's roster.