Softball grad finalist for NCAA award

Coryn Schmit has earned a long list of athletic and academic honors. Photo: Steve Woltmann

Softball player Coryn Schmit is one of two finalists from the Horizon League in the running for the 23rd annual NCAA Woman of the Year award, the Horizon League announced.

“We are so excited and proud to know that Coryn is being considered for this prestigious award,” head softball coach Michelle Venturella said.

“She has distinguished herself both on and off the field through maintaining her 4.0 grade-point average, raising money for breast cancer through the FLAMEingo Drive and being such a key player for us.

“The fact that she is being considered is a tremendous honor.”

Schmit graduated last month with a bachelor’s in kinesiology and begins graduate studies in physical therapy this fall.

The NCAA Woman of the Year award began in 1991 to honor graduating women in intercollegiate athletics and their accomplishments.

The award highlights athletic achievements, academic honors, community service and leadership efforts.

The first baseman from Hawthorn Hills was recently named a first team Capital One Academic All-American.

The ninth Academic All-American in UIC history, she is the second player to be named to the first team. She was selected for the third team last year.

Schmit, who played softball from 2010 to 2013, was an Honors College student in Guaranteed Professional Program Admissions with a 4.0 GPA.

Youngstown State women’s basketball player Brandi Brown is the other Horizon League selection for the NCAA award, which will be announced in August.