The Elite 89, an award founded by the NCAA, recognizes the true essence of the student-athlete by honoring the individual who has reached the pinnacle of competition at the national championship level in his or her sport, while also achieving the highest academic standard among his or her peers. The Elite 89 is presented to the student-athlete with the highest cumulative grade-point average participating at the finals site for each of the NCAA’s championships.
“We are very excited for Tristan to receive the prestigious Elite 89 award for the second year in a row," said Head Coach Steve Martin. "The Elite 89 goes to the student-athlete with the highest GPA at the championships, so essentially we have had the smartest guy in division I wrestling for two consecutive years. What makes it even more exciting is that this is just the second time that a DI wrestler has won the award two straight years!”
Warner is a double major in criminal justice and communications and currently holds a 3.984 cumulative grade-point average. Over Warner’s career, he earned Academic All-American laurels and NWCA Division I All-Academic Team honors. He has also been a member of the Dean’s List nine times, earning a 4.0 GPA on seven occasions.
“I am honored to receive the NCAA Elite 89 award again,” said Warner. “Although my wrestling season and career did not end as I had imagined, this definitely helps put a little brighter outlook on my future. I want to thank everyone affiliated with Old Dominion University that supported me on the mat or in the classroom. I couldn't have achieved this without them."
“Finally, I want to acknowledge Jake Henderson, Matt Tourdot, and Austin Coburn for their outstanding academic accomplishments that may get overshadowed but have been an integral part of my success and our team's ability to secure the second highest GPA in the nation,” added Warner.
Eligible student-athletes are sophomores or above who have participated in their sport for at least two years with their school. They must be an active member of the team, traveling and a designated member of the squad size at the championship. The number of credits completed breaks all ties.
“This is a great testament to our academic advising staff, led by April Brecht,” added Martin. “There are a lot of people involved in this process, but her staff does a phenomenal job getting our kids ready to excel in the classroom.”
For more information on the Elite 89 award winners, log on to NCAA.com/elite89.
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