June 22nd, 2009
Texas State places 13 as Ashe scholars

STAFF REPORT

Texas State placed 13 student-athletes as Arthur Ashe Jr. Sports Scholars for 2009, including three first team honorees in Heather Martinez, Michael Rutledge and two-time first team recipient Travis Houston.Andrea Giraldo, Alex Newton, Sara Olayiwola and Veronica Rodriguez all received honors for the second-straight year, as well.

Inspired by tennis legend Arthur Ashe Jr.’s commitment to education and his love for the game of tennis, the annual award is given to student-athletes that excel as sport scholars. In addition to their athletic ability, the Arthur Ashe Jr. Sports Scholar must exhibit academic excellence and community activism.

Houston, who is pursuing a degree in Computer Information Systems, holds a cumulative 3.75 GPA while preparing for his senior season with the Texas State football team.

Teammate and December 2008 graduate Rutledge carries a 3.67 GPA while working on his Masters Degree in physical education.

Martinez, an exercise and sports science junior, holds a 3.95 GPA while competing for Texas State’s track and field team.

Joining the first-team selections and multiple-year award winners for Texas State in 2009 are Alvaro Garcia, Christine Brijalba, Kristina Tello, Amanda Alvarado, Jiovana Martinez and Jamie Whiteside.