York College Women’s Swimming Team Earns Prestigious CSCAA Scholar All-America Honor

The College Swimming and Diving Coaches Association of America (CSCAA) has named the York College of Pennsylvania women’s swimming team a recipient of its prestigious Scholar All-America award, recognizing the Spartans’ commitment to academic excellence alongside athletic achievement.
The honor is awarded to programs across the country that have achieved a team GPA of 3.0 or higher while competing at a high level in the pool. York’s recognition underscores the dedication of its student-athletes, coaching staff, and institutional leadership to success in and out of the water.
“This recognition celebrates teams that achieve excellence in the classroom while competing at the highest levels in the pool,” said CSCAA Executive Director Samantha Barany. “Coach Birkir Jonsson, his staff, and the entire team have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to academic and athletic success, and we are proud to recognize their efforts.”
Head Coach Birkir Jonsson praised his student-athletes for their work ethic and balance. “Our team takes pride in being well-rounded,” he said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see their dedication in the classroom receive this kind of recognition. They bring the same level of commitment and intensity to their studies as they do to training and competition.”
The honor also reflects the College’s broader support of its athletic programs and student experience.

“In today’s college athletics environment, it’s more important than ever to invest in programs that develop the whole student,” said Paul Saikia, Assistant Dean for Athletics and Recreation. “This award is a reflection not only of the swimmers’ discipline and drive, but of the values we promote here at York. We are proud of what these young women are accomplishing.”
Barany added her appreciation for York’s continued investment in its athletic programs. “In a time of increasing demands and shifting priorities in college athletics, York’s support of its swimming program speaks volumes,” she said. “By backing these student-athletes, the College is helping shape individuals who contribute meaningfully to campus life and go on to become engaged and loyal alumni.”
The CSCAA Scholar All-America honor adds to a growing list of achievements for the Spartan swimming program and reinforces York College’s commitment to fostering academic excellence across all areas of student life.