The New York State Public High School Athletic Association, Inc. (NYSPHSAA) announced its 2017-18 Scholar-Athlete School of Distinction and School of Excellence Award winners.

We are proud to announce that Galway Junior/Senior High School was named a Scholar-Athlete School of Excellence. To earn the award, 75% of the school’s varsity teams had to qualify and receive the Scholar-Athlete team award. In order for a team to be considered a Scholar Athlete Team, the team’s TOTAL Grade Point Average must be 90 or above for 75% of the roster. 

"We are thrilled to be named a Scholar-Athlete School of Excellence," said Galway Director of Athletics/Dean of Students Nathan Kocak. "The goal of Galway Junior/Senior High School and Eagle Nation Athletics is to cultivate and inspire well-rounded student athletes. This award recognizes the dedication of our athletes, coaches, faculty, and staff and rewards them for their efforts to achieve excellence on the field and in the classroom." 

The purpose of the School of Distinction and School of Excellence Awards are to unite varsity coaches in challenging their teams to achieve a statewide honor. This year, 30 schools earned the School of Distinction Award and 111 schools earned the School of Excellence Award.  

More schools received the School of Distinction and School of Excellence Awards this year compared to last year. This year’s figures represent the highest number of NYSPHSAA member schools being recognized for their academic achievements. 

“The increase in the number of schools receiving both awards shows what fantastic student-athletes we have here in New York State,” said Robert Zayas NYSPHSAA Executive Director. “This is evidence that schools, administration, coaches and student-athletes focus on excellence in the classroom as well as the playing fields.”