April 3, 2006

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - Baylor softball's Harmony Schwethelm is one of 10 softball players from around the country selected as a NSCA All-American Strength and Conditioning Athlete of the Year the National Strength and Conditioning Association announced Monday.

The selection marks the second time in program history a Baylor softball player has been honored for the award after Carrie Leerberg earned the honor a year ago.

"Harmony (Schwethelm) epitomizes every aspect of what one would deem a true player of the game," Baylor speed coach Brandon Marcello said. "She is a diligent athlete who gives nothing less than 100-percent every time she competes, practices or works out."

The senior shortstop, who earned NFCA All-America honors a year ago, ranks first all-time in Baylor history with 94 stolen bases and is second on Baylor's career list with 220 hits. Last season, Schwethelm became only the second player in school history to earn All-America honors after hitting .360 and leading the team with 36 stolen bases.

The NSCA All-American Strength and Conditioning Athletes of the Year program recognizes those collegiate athletes whose athletic accomplishments, in the opinion of their strength coach, reflect their dedication to strength training and conditioning.

These athletes are also recognized for their academic and personal accomplishments and their integrity as student athletes. Power Systems, Inc. is the official sponsor of the program.

Baylor will return to action on Wednesday, April 5, when the Lady Bears travel to Sam Houston State for a doubleheader beginning at 4:00 p.m.