USMMA Senior Named Academic All-American

KINGS POINT, N.Y. - Senior tri-captain Chris Nitta of the United States Merchant Marine Academy soccer team was named an ESPN The Magazine Third Team Academic All-American in the College Division. The announcement was made by the College Sports Information Directors of America earlier today. This is the first time the sweeper has garnered this award after being named an Academic All-District pick the past two seasons.  

"We are very proud of Chris," said Head Coach Michael Smolens. "As the number two student in the senior class, Chris epitomizes the true student-athlete. The extent of his academic, athletic and regimental success at the Academy is a tribute to his ability to manage his time and balance his responsibilities. A player and a person of this quality will be difficult to replace."  

Nitta ranks second in his class with a 3.83 grade point average as a marine engineering systems major. He has earned a gold star every trimester for posting a grade point average of 3.5 or above. While at sea, the tri-captain received the Sea Year Academic Ribbon with a a Bronze Star as a sophomore and a junior for posting a 3.5 grade point average or better. Nitta is also a member of the O'Gara Academic Honor Society for being in the top 10 percent of his class. Additionally, he was an Honor Plebe and the Plebe Representative to the Student Council.  

Athletically, Nitta was named the inaugural Landmark Conference Defensive Player of the Year and to the All-Landmark Conference First Team this fall. He also helped the Mariners win the league's regular season championship.  

"Chris needed to step up his leadership in the back with a new goalkeeper and two new defenders beside him," said Smolens. "He was our most consistent player all season long and the main reason for our defensive success."  

Nitta is scheduled to graduate this spring.