Originally printed in the Kansan on February 27th, 2014.

The Kansas swimmers don’t just hit the water, they hit the books too. On Tuesday, the Big 12 Conference announced that nine Jayhawks earned first and second team Academic All-Big 12 honors for their hard work in both the pool and the classroom.

The Jayhawks being named to the first-team list are sophomore Laura Bilsborrow (Global and International Studies), senior Alyssa Golden (Community Health and Pre-Nursing), sophomore Bryce Hinde (Exercise Science), senior Malia Johnson (Psychology and Pre-Dental), junior Deanna Marks (Mechanical Engineering and Business Administration), and sophomore Chelsie Miller (Accounting).

The Jayhawks being honored with second team selection are senior Alison Lusk (Chemical Engineering), sophomore Haley Molden (Exercise Science), and senior Sara Snow (Exercise Science).

To be recognized, the Academic All-Big 12 team student-athletes must keep a 3.00 GPA or higher, whether it be cumulative or the previous two semesters. They must also have competed in 60 percent of the scheduled contests. Freshmen and transfer students aren’t eligible to be named to the team. The requirements are a little different. Seniors must have participated on the team for a minimum of two years and meet the grade criteria. The difference between first-team and second-team is GPA. Members of the first-team have maintained a 3.20 or better GPA, while second-team members hold anywhere from a 3.00 to a 3.19 GPA.

Currently, the swim team is in Austin, Texas competing in the Big 12 Swimming and Diving Championships. The meet takes place February 26-March 1.