DENVER — Excellence in the classroom continued to be a hallmark of MSU Denver softball as three Roadrunners earned recognition on the College Sports Communicators Academic All-District Team, announced Tuesday morning.
Senior pitcher Sam Mader, and outfielders Natalie Shellhorn and Lexi Gephart were all honored for their accomplishments both on the field and in the classroom during the 2026 season.
The CSC Academic All-District program recognizes student-athletes who excel academically and athletically. To qualify for consideration, student-athletes must maintain a cumulative grade-point average of 3.50 or higher while either competing in at least 90 percent of their team's games or starting at least 66 percent of contests throughout the season.
Mader added another prestigious academic honor to an already decorated senior campaign. Earlier this spring, she was named First Team Academic All-RMAC, highlighting her continued success in the classroom while serving as one of the Roadrunners' top contributors in the circle. Throughout her career, Mader established herself as both a leader on the pitching staff and one of the program's top student-athletes.
Shellhorn also earned Academic All-District recognition after contributing to the Roadrunners throughout the season while excelling academically. The honor reflects her dedication
to balancing the demands of collegiate athletics with success in the classroom.
Gephart rounded out the trio of honorees for MSU Denver. A consistent presence in the Roadrunners lineup, Gephart's selection recognized her commitment to academic achievement while competing at a high level throughout the season.
The three selections continued a strong year academically for the Roadrunners softball program, which consistently demonstrated success both in competition and in the classroom.
Their recognition also underscored the commitment to academic excellence that remains a cornerstone of MSU Denver Athletics.
With three representatives on the CSC Academic All-District Team, the Roadrunners once again showcased the program's ability to develop student-athletes who excel in all facets of the collegiate experience.
