Get ready for an inspiring story of academic excellence and athletic prowess! Four University of Minnesota Duluth volleyball stars have been recognized for their outstanding achievements both on and off the court.
The 2025 CSC Academic All-District® Volleyball Team for NCAA Division II has named Paige Decker, Madeline Guetzkow, Ava Jones, and Madison Reed as its newest members. This prestigious honor celebrates the nation's top student-athletes who excel not only in their chosen sport but also in the classroom.
But here's where it gets controversial... these athletes are not just talented; they are true all-rounders. Let's dive into their remarkable journeys.
Paige Decker: The Biology Major with a Block Party
Decker, a Biology major with a 3.83 GPA, has earned her first CSC Academic All-District® accolade. As a middle blocker, she's a two-time NSIC Academic Team of Excellence honoree and has consistently made the NSIC All-Academic Team. Her performance on the court is equally impressive; she led the Bulldogs in blocks per set (0.83) and total blocks (66), despite missing several matches due to injury. Decker's hitting percentage of .355 ranked sixth in the NSIC, showcasing her skill and determination.
Ava Jones: Setting the Stage for Success
Ava Jones, a Pre Communication Sciences and Disorders major with a 3.88 GPA, has also made her mark. This setter from Detroit Lakes, Minn., has been named to the NSIC Academic Team of Excellence and the NSIC All-Academic Team. Jones's breakout sophomore campaign earned her All-NSIC Second Team accolades. She ranked ninth in NCAA Division II in assists per set (11.19) and helped UMD achieve a national ranking of No. 20 in team hitting percentage (.251). Jones's performance was so impressive that she was named the NSIC Setter of the Week during the first week of play.
Madeline Guetzkow: The Right Side Hitter with a Powerful Swing
Guetzkow, an Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences major with a 3.50 GPA, has earned her first CSC Academic All-District® Team recognition. As a junior right side hitter, she led the Bulldogs in points per set (3.77) and kills per set (3.09), ranking 10th and 13th, respectively, in the NSIC. Guetzkow's consistency is remarkable, with six double-doubles and 10 or more kills in 14 matches.
Madison Reed: Digging Deep for Success
Madison Reed, a marketing major at UMD with a 3.65 GPA, has also achieved her first CSC Academic All-District® nod. As a libero, she led the Bulldogs in digs per set (4.47) and total digs (465), ranking sixth in the league. Reed's defensive skills were on full display, with 10 or more digs in 24 matches and a career-high 33 digs in a single match against Wayne State (NE).
And this is the part most people miss... these athletes are not just exceptional students and athletes; they are also humble and dedicated individuals. Their hard work and commitment to their sport and studies serve as an inspiration to us all.
The announcement of the first-, second-, and third-team Academic All-America® honorees is set for January 13, 2026. Will these Bulldogs make the cut? Only time will tell.
What do you think? Are academic honors as important as athletic achievements? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
