The St. Mary’s College of Maryland Seahawks are dominating both the basketball court and the swimming pool, with three student-athletes recently receiving prestigious conference accolades for their exceptional performances. Let’s dive into the details of these outstanding achievements and the impact they are making on the sports scene.
Yassine Idrissa Shines as Defensive Player of the Week
First-year forward Yassine Idrissa, hailing from Rockville, Maryland, and a graduate of Wootton High School, has claimed his second United East Conference Men’s Basketball Defensive Player of the Week award. This recognition comes on the heels of a stellar performance during a strong 2-1 week for the Seahawks, securing victories over Gallaudet University and the University of Valley Forge, with a road loss to Bryn Athyn College in between.
Idrissa’s stats are nothing short of impressive, shooting a remarkable 79.2% from the field and 71.4% from the free-throw line across the three games. These numbers, coupled with his 53 points, 22 rebounds (16 defensive), 11 blocks, five assists, and three steals, showcase his multifaceted skills and undeniable impact on the court. His standout moments include a 19-point, eight-rebound, seven-block performance against Gallaudet and an 18-point, nine-rebound, three-block showing against Valley Forge.
Currently leading the United East in both field goal percentage (.667) and blocks per game (2.6), Idrissa also ranks nationally, sitting at fifth in Division III for field goal percentage and 13th in blocks per game. With such a remarkable season under his belt, Idrissa and the Seahawks (11-9, 7-4 UEC) are gearing up to face Notre Dame of Maryland University in their next matchup, set for tomorrow at 7 p.m.
Luke Schwenk and Kelsie Miller Make Waves in Swimming
On the swimming front, senior Luke Schwenk, a seasoned swimmer from Annapolis, Maryland, and a graduate of Broadneck High School, has clinched his third Atlantic East Conference Men’s Swimmer of the Week award this season. This achievement brings his career total to an impressive 17 and underscores his consistent excellence in the pool. Schwenk’s standout performances were instrumental in the Seahawks’ resounding 165.50-79.50 non-conference victory over William Peace University, with victories in the 100-backstroke, 50-freestyle, and 100-freestyle events.
Meanwhile, sophomore Kelsie Miller, a rising star from Potomac, Maryland, and a graduate of Churchill High School, continues to shine in the swimming arena. She recently secured her second Atlantic East Conference Women’s Swimmer of the Week award this season, marking the sixth of her career. Miller’s exceptional performance in a 180-68 non-conference win at William Peace University included four gold medals, showcasing her prowess in the pool across various events.
Miller’s victories in the 200-butterfly, 100-freestyle, and 200-individual medley, coupled with her stellar contribution to the 200-medley relay, highlight her versatility and skill as a swimmer. With the Seahawks (10-6) set to host Southern Virginia University for their Senior Day meet this Saturday, Miller’s continued success is sure to be a driving force for the team.
As recognition continues to pour in for the St. Mary’s College of Maryland athletes, their dedication, skill, and passion for their respective sports serve as a testament to the university’s commitment to excellence both on and off the field. With each victory and accolade, these student-athletes embody the spirit of sportsmanship, discipline, and teamwork, inspiring fans and fellow athletes alike. Stay tuned for more exciting updates as the Seahawks continue to make waves in the world of collegiate sports.
