April 17, 2008

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) has awarded four Northern Illinois University athletes with the esteemed All-American Strength and Conditioning Athlete of the Year Award. This award, given to 239 collegiate athletes from 165 schools, recognizes student athletes with a preeminent commitment to strength training and conditioning.

Senior track and field runner Lauren Kubasiak was selected by strength and conditioning assistant coach Chad Bower for her diligent efforts to improve the track program. Bower also chose soccer player Brian Van Buren because of his passion for the sport and commitment to hard work in the weight room.

Former strength and conditioning assistant coach Clete McLeod selected baseball player Dan Atkenson for his uncommon dedication to his sport and impressive knowledge of the training required to compete at this level of baseball. Senior track and field runner Carolyn Vasquez was also chosen by McLeod for her leadership abilities, as she trains well beyond what is expected of her and encourages those around her to do the same.

Robert Jursnikc, NSCA's Executive Director, believes it is important to identify such exemplary athletes because "the advantages of strength training and condition cannot be denied in collegiate athletics, these student-athletes attest to this understanding."