CHARLOTTE, N.C.–The Monroe University - New Rochelle men's cross country and football teams were named the 2025-26 NJCAA Academic Team of the Year for their respective sports on Wednesday afternoon. The full release by the NJCAA can be seen here.
As a team, the men's cross-country team earned a GPA of 3.64, while the football team earned a GPA of 3.53.
"Being recognized as the NJCAA Academic Team of the Year is one of the highest honors our program can receive because it reflects the work our student-athletes put in every single day beyond the football field," stated football head coach Kevin Pulley Jr. "We emphasize accountability in every aspect of their lives, and this award is a testament to the discipline, commitment, and character of our team. I'm incredibly proud of the way our players have represented Monroe University in the classroom while continuing to pursue excellence on the field."
Football student-athlete Zavry Ward was named to the NJCAA All-Academic First Team after he tallied a 4.0 GPA during the 2025-26 year, while fellow teammate Ezekiel Ashiagbor made the NJCAA All-Academic Second Team for having a GPA above 3.80.
The football team finished the 2025 season last in NJCAA with a 5-4 record, including a victory over No. 1 ranked NJCAA Division III College of DuPage.
"Cross country is built on consistency, dedication, and a willingness to do the little things the right way, and those same qualities carry over into the classroom," stated men's cross country head coach Shirvon Greene. "Earning NJCAA Academic Team of the Year honors is a tremendous accomplishment that speaks to the commitment our student-athletes have made to their academic success. They continue to set a standard of excellence, and I'm proud to see their hard work recognized on a national level."
Cross Country student-athletes Boitshepo Mashilo, Micah McHardy, Yassine Rahoui, and Nkanyezi Ziqubu were each named to the NJCAA All-Academic Second Team. The men's cross-country team finished the 2025 season in 26th place at the 2025 NJCAA Division I Men's Cross Country Nationals, while Ziqubu placed first amongst Monroe runners with a time of 26:51.40.
