Football, Track Student-Athletes Earn All-American Recognition

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz.- Four Northern Arizona University student-athletes have been recognized as All-Americans through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, an organization that honors student athletes dedicated to strength training and conditioning.  The NSCA selected Michael Battisti and Reid Worthington of the NAU football team as well as Jami Michaud and Jackie Shea of the women's track and field program. 

In honor of these athletes, NSCA Executive Director Alan Kinniburgh said, "The advantages of strength training and conditioning cannot be denied in collegiate and high school athletics. These student-athletes attest to this understanding, and are to be applauded for their hard work and dedication."

Jackie Shea, from Littleton, Colo., is currently competing in her fourth season with the Lumberjacks. Shea competes in several short distance events including the 400-meter dash, 400-meter hurdles, and 800-meter run. Jackie was a member of the third-place 4x400-meter relay at the outdoor championships in 2010 and has twice been selected to the All-Big Sky academic team.

"Jackie trains with an intensity that has not been seen from a female athlete at this university," strength coach Cody Hodgeson. "She always comes to train hard, no matter the circumstance, no matter the time of year, no matter her chances to compete later in the season. Her consistency and dedication make her stand out as a leader and as an athlete

Jami Michaud, from Mesa, Ariz., is in her third season with the Lumberjacks and is currently the NAU indoor and outdoor record holder for women's pole vault, clearing 12 feet- 7.75 inches. Jami was selected in 2009 and 2010 to the Academic All-Big Sky team.

In honor of Jami's All-American selection, strength coach Daniel Darcy, Jr. said, "Jami has demonstrated an outstanding dedication to her strength training program which has allowed her to maximize her pole vaulting abilities. Through her consistent work ethic she has enhanced her speed and strength to excel in competition. She is pound for pound the strongest female athlete at the university."

Michael Battisti, a native of Hesperia, Calif., finished his college career last season upon graduating with a degree in physical education and exercise science. Battisti appeared in 10 games and finished the season with 25 tackles, including eight solos. In 2008 Battisti was selected as a member of the All-Big Sky honorable mention team and Academic All-Big Sky team.

In response to Battisti's recognition, Hodgeson described him as, "A man who battled through several injuries in his career, Michael never stopped working hard. He never gave up hope with whatever healthy body parts he still had. He would train with intensity. His passion and driven spirit led his team both on the field and in the weight room."

Reid Worthington, from Yorba Linda, Calif., finished his college career last season upon graduating in December with a degree in applied sociology. Worthington appeared in 11 games last season and finished the year leading the team with 67 tackles, 27 of which were solo. He was named to the All-Big Sky first team and was the teams Most Valuable Player on defense. In 2009, Worthington was honored to the All-Big Sky honorable mention team.

"Reid has brought great energy and intensity to each and every lift," said Darcy, "His drive carried over to practices and game day, leading to success on the field specially finishing as the leading tackler during the 2010 season. His consistent effort is contagious, and regardless of any outside distractions, his desire to excel has never failed."

Each one of these student-athletes has proven their success in competition and in the classroom. They lead by example believing that personal discipline and determination contribute to individual and team success.