AMERICUS, Ga. - Georgia Southwestern State University placed three members of its cross country program on the 2025 Peach Belt Conference All-Academic Team, as juniors Trey Reid and Maggie McDonald, along with sophomore Sonja Bernacki, earned the distinction for the first time in their careers.
The Peach Belt Conference All-Academic Team recognizes student-athletes who excel both in the classroom and in competition, honoring those who meet stringent academic standards while making meaningful contributions to their teams. All three Hurricanes met the eligibility criteria by participating in at least half of GSW's events, serving as key contributors throughout the season, and maintaining a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 or higher.
Reid, a junior from Buckhead, Ga., carries a 3.50 GPA while majoring in Special Education. A consistent presence for the Hurricanes on the course, Reid's dedication reflects the discipline required to balance a demanding academic program with the rigors of collegiate cross country.
Bernacki, a sophomore from Clyo, Ga., posted an impressive 3.96 GPA in Nursing. In her debut season for the Lady Hurricanes, she established herself as a reliable contributor for Georgia Southwestern, pairing elite academic performance with steady competitive efforts throughout the season.
McDonald, a junior from LaGrange, Ga., earned her spot on the All-Academic Team with a 3.56 GPA as an Exercise Science major. A two-sport athlete who also plays softball at GSW, her recognition highlights a strong commitment to excellence in both her studies and her athletic pursuits, embodying the Hurricanes' emphasis on student-athlete success.
To be eligible for the Peach Belt Conference All-Academic Team, student-athletes must be at least a sophomore academically and athletically, achieve a minimum 3.50 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale, and participate in at least half of their team's events as a starter or significant contributor. Transfer student-athletes are eligible once all requirements are met. The program is overseen by the Peach Belt Conference sports communications professionals.
The trio's selections underscore Georgia Southwestern's continued tradition of developing well-rounded student-athletes who thrive both on the course and in the classroom.
