Alexis Schultz named national dodgeball player of the year; team clinches 2024 NCDA title

The University of Akron's Women’s dodgeball club has reason to celebrate as it clinched the 2024 National Collegiate Dodgeball Association (NCDA) title in April and one of its own, Alexis Schultz, was named the prestigious title of National Dodgeball Player of the Year.

Under Schultz’s leadership, the Akron Women's Dodgeball club team made history by clinching the 2024 NCDA title after achieving the biggest comeback in collegiate women's dodgeball history at the championship game at Miami University in Ohio. After trailing 1-3 in the championship match, Akron made a spectacular comeback, winning the next six points for a dominant 7-3 victory against rival Michigan State University (MSU). The team faced nine universities, including out-of-state competitors MSU and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. You can watch the electrifying game highlights and more on College Dodgeball’s YouTube channel.

Hailing from Stow, Ohio, Schultz has emerged as a standout athlete in the world of dodgeball, earning recognition for her exceptional skills and dedication to the sport. Initially interested in playing collegiate softball, she learned more about the dodgeball team once she came to The University of Akron (UA), and her commitment led her to become a key player on both the coed and women's dodgeball teams.

"I am very grateful to be recognized for an award that showcases the talent within the dodgeball community," expressed Schultz. "With this recognition comes a sense of responsibility, and I am committed to representing the sport with integrity and sportsmanship."

Between balancing her academic pursuits as a mechanical engineering major, Williams Honor Scholar and her dedication to the UA dodgeball team, she exemplifies the true essence of a student-athlete. She credits her ability to prioritize and stay ahead of her commitments, ensuring that they all get the attention they deserve.

Schultz’s success on the dodgeball court has not gone unnoticed. With the spotlight now shining on her and the nationally ranked dodgeball program, there is anticipation for increased interest and participation in the sport. As the program continues to grow under the guidance of the head coach, Adam Pfeifer and advisor, Carrie Tomko, the future looks promising for dodgeball at UA.

Reflecting on her journey, she offers words of encouragement to aspiring dodgeball players, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and fearlessness. "Don't be scared to try something new," she advises. "With dedication and patience, you'll see results sooner than you think."

As Schultz continues to make waves in the world of dodgeball, her achievements serve as an inspiration to athletes everywhere, proving that with passion and determination, anything is possible.

The 2024 Women’s Team Roster Includes:

• Nicole Cutich - Pittsburgh, Pa, political science: national security major
• Zoe DeLand - Salem, Ohio, biomedical science major
• Abby Emery - Hilliard, Ohio, biomedical engineering major
• Beth Fogle - Mason, Ohio, biomedical engineering major
• Addy Gmerek - Massillon, Ohio, nursing major
• Jayna Hager - Massillon, Ohio, mechanical engineering
• Annie Hinnebusch – Canton, Ohio, construction engineering major
• Esther Jeong – Akron, Ohio, photography major
• Meghan Koch – Stow, Ohio, criminal justice major
• Mary Mullen - Brunswick, Ohio, biomedical science major
• Stephanie Myers - Broadview Heights, Ohio, mechanical engineering major
• Emily Nicholson – Streetsboro, Ohio, biomedical science major
• Alexis Schultz – Stow, Ohio, mechanical engineering major

Media contact: Cristine Boyd, 330-972-6476 or cboyd@uakron.edu