Carol Lee named ITA Scholar-Athlete

Carol Lee, seen here in a file photo, was named part of the 2021 Intercollegiate Tennis Association All-Academic Team while playing for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. (Mark Rabago)

The CNMI’s Carol Lee is not only reaping success in the tennis court in her first year suiting up for the Yellow Jackets of the Georgia Tech tennis team, but has also scored points in academics after being named part of the ITA Scholar-Athletes.

According to the Georgia Tech tennis team’s website, the school’s team was lauded academically earlier this month, as the Lady Yellow Jackets were named a 2021 Intercollegiate Tennis Association All-Academic Team. In addition, five student-athletes were tabbed ITA Scholar-Athletes, including the CNMI’s very own Lee.

To be named an ITA Scholar-Athlete, an individual must hold a grade point average of at least a 3.5 for the current academic year.

Aside from Lee other Lady Yellow Jackets hailed for their academic achievements were Monika Dedaj, Ava Hrastar, Jeanette Lin. and Sophia Sassoli. This is Lin’s third recognition and the first for Lee, Dedaj, Hrastar, and Sassoli.

Lee told Saipan Tribune that it was an honor to be named part of the ITA Scholar-Athletes.

“Personally, it is very important because as a student-athlete, there are academic requirements that I need to follow and keep my academic as a priority. In addition, Georgia Tech is one of the top academic schools so I do take my academic importantly and seriously,” she said.

The many-time NMSA Students Athlete of the Year and 2016 Pacific Games gold medalist said it’s important for students-athletes to not only put a premium on their sport but also in their studies.

“I think having the right amount of balance in academics and in sports is important for student-athletes. Also I would like to give my appreciation to my parents. They pushed me and motivated me to do well in academics,” she said.

Her father, Dong Min Lee, said he couldn’t be more proud of Carol’s latest achievement of being included in the ITA Scholar-Athletes list.

“I am always grateful to see Carol doing her best in her studies and sports for the sake of her future.”

Jeff Race, CNMI national tennis coach and CNMI Sports Hall of Famer, said he’s happy with his ward’s continued success.

“We all know that Carol is an amazing athlete and a great person to be around. And she got an outstanding academic achievement as well, that’s just fantastic!”

Her junior high school alma mater, Saipan Community School, also congratulated Carol for her latest accomplishment.

“Carol has achieved success by striking a healthy balance between her academic effort and amazing talent as an athlete. We congratulate Carol and continue to pray for her and our amazing Saipan Community School alumni. Excited for all that is ahead!” said SCS principal Amanda Dunn.

Aside from their players getting the citation, Georgia Tech women’s tennis was tabbed an ITA All-Academic Team for the second consecutive year. The honor recognizes programs that posted a team grade point average of 3.2 or above for the 2020-21 academic year.

Georgia Tech was one of 12 ACC programs featured on both the scholar-athlete and all-academic teams lists.