McLean County Times

The Illinois Wesleyan University tennis teams have achieved a notable academic accolade, with four players being named to the College Sports Communicators Academic All-District teams. This recognition was announced on Tuesday, May 14.

On the women's team, sophomore Kate Christian from Washington, Illinois earned her first CSC Academic All-District honor. Christian, who majors in sociology, participated in all 18 matches of the season. She recorded an 8-10 overall singles play record and a 7-11 doubles record. Notably, she was IWU's CCIW RESPECT award honoree for the second consecutive year.

For the men's team, three players were honored. Junior Zeke Cross from Springfield, Illinois received his second consecutive CSC Academic All-District recognition. Cross is double majoring in accounting and mathematics and played in all 19 dual matches and one tournament during the season. He posted a singles record of 7-9 and teamed up with Ben Vigneri for a doubles record of 5-12.

Sophomore Griffin Hammond from Metamora, Illinois also received his first CSC Academic All-District award. Majoring in environmental studies, Hammond played 18 matches and one tournament this season. He recorded a singles play record of 7-10 and partnered with freshman Thad Dillow for an 8-11 doubles record.

Sophomore Ben Vigneri from Casper, Wyoming rounded out the honors by earning his first academic all-district accolade. A health promotion and fitness management major, Vigneri appeared in all 19 dual matches and two tournaments. His singles play record stood at 6-17 while he primarily played No. 2 singles spot.

All four student-athletes will return to compete for Illinois Wesleyan in the upcoming 2024-25 season.