University of Albany's Nikki Branchini on Women's At-Large District I Academic All-America Second Team - UAlbany Sports 2009

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Providence, R.I. – University at Albany’s Nikki Branchini has been named to the ESPN The Magazine All-District I Women’s At-Large Academic All-America Team, as announced on Thursday, May 21 by CoSIDA (College Sports Information Directors of America). Branchini, a defender on the women’s lacrosse team, earned second-team recognition.

Branchini, a sophomore from Guilderland, N.Y., has a 3.83 cumulative grade point average in history with a minor in education. She was voted to the All-America East Conference first team for the second straight year. Branchini, the 2009 America East Fans’ Choice player of the year, is seventh among the NCAA Division I leaders in draw controls at 3.82 per game. She led the Great Danes in ground balls (42) and caused turnovers (18), plus has scored four goals. In addition, Branchini was picked to the America East All-Academic squad.