PEORIA, Ill. -- Bradley University Sports Performance Director Eddie Papis has announced Connor Hickman (Men's Basketball), Ryan Vogel (Baseball), Isis Fitch (Women's Basketball), Abbot Badgley (Softball) and Eli Rieker (Track and Field) have been recognized as 2023-24 All-American Strength and Conditioning Athletes of the Year by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). The NSCA All-American Strength and Conditioning Athletes of the Year program recognizes collegiate and high school athletes whose athletic accomplishments, in the opinion of their strength coach, reflect their dedication to strength training and conditioning. The NSCA All-Americans are also recognized for their academic and personal accomplishments and integrity as student-athletes. Papis remarked about this year's group "This is our highest number of athletes to be honored with this prestigious award in one year. It's a historic moment for a very historic group of Bradley Athletes. All five of our athlete's speak louder with actions then words. Their leadership off the field / court in training (and
academics) has helped us build a culture we are very proud of here at Bradley. My staff of Coach Jay and Coach Friend have helped us expand our strength program to see growth in all our sports and not just our most recognized" Ryan Vogel is a 5-year starter in centerfield for the Braves. His 2023 season saw him lead team in hitting at .382 and stolen bases 20/27. He was also named MVC all defensive team and Honorable mention All-Conference.
 

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Abbott Badgley in her first 2 years has emerged as the Braves two-way player posting near the top in both pitching and hitting statistics. She has currently the most home runs over the past 3 years of all Braves.

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Eli Rieker will graduate Bradley the fastest track athlete in its history. He is currently the record holder in all indoor and outdoor speed events all time at Bradley. He was named All-MVC Spring Indoor 2023.

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Hickman and Fitch have been instrumental for the Bradley basketball programs on court with their durability and toughness. Fitch has led the team in rebounding the past two years and played the most minutes. Hickman has logged the 2nd most minutes the past 2 years while also leading team in scoring this past year. Both are considered top on ball defenders for their teams.

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The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) is an international nonprofit professional association founded in 1978 and is dedicated to advancing the strength and conditioning profession around the world. The NSCA advances the profession by supporting strength and conditioning professionals devoted to helping others discover and maximize their strengths. The organization disseminates research based knowledge and its practical application by offering industry-leading certifications, research journals, career development services, and continuing education opportunities. The NSCA community is composed of more than 45,000 members and certified professionals who further industry standards as researchers, educators, strength coaches, personal trainers, and other roles in related fields.