Softball has three named Daktronics Scholar-Athletes

UHV's Lauren Caka tries to turn a double play in a RRAC game against University of the Southwest on April 29.
UHV's Lauren Caka tries to turn a double play in a RRAC game against University of the Southwest on April 29.
May 26, 2023

The NAIA recently honored three UHV softball players by selecting them as Daktronics Scholar-Athletes.

Lauren Caka, Claire Blinka and Alexi Wade were the three honorees out of 1,131 student-athletes across the country. In order to be considered for the honors, a nominee must have a 3.5 GPA or better.

"I'm so proud of these girls," said head coach Lindsey Ortiz. "They worked to meet high expectations wherever asked of them, including in the classroom. They set examples for our team of what a student-athlete is supposed to do."

Caka, a graduate student from Yoakum, had a 4.0 GPA this semester as she wrapped up her Master's degree in Sports Management. The second baseman had 21 RBIs on 34 hits in 44 games this season to help the Jaguars reach the Red River Athletic Conference tournament semifinals. She was also selected as UHV's Champion of Character for All-Conference awards.

Blinka, a junior Pre-Allied Health major from Port Lavaca, boasts a 3.66 GPA. The first baseman earned first team All-Conference honors for the second time after hitting .336 with a team-best 45 RBIs this season. She also earned All-Tournament honors in the RRAC after hitting .333 with six RBIs in five games.

Wade, a sophomore Biology major from Granger, carries a 3.97 GPA. The right-handed pitcher played in 19 games this season for the Jaguars, including six relief appearances in the circle. She had a .424 on-base percentage at the plate.