THROGS NECK, NY – Tracy King, Skyline Conference's Commissioner, announced last evening the Skyline Conference Scholar Athlete's of the year.  Men's Soccer captain Mayer Nelson (Poughkeepsie, NY/Arlington) (Poughkeepsie, NY/Arlington) was the sole recipient of this honor from Maritime.  Nelson adds this honor to the list of accomplishments he has received from his stellar performance in the 2008 soccer campaign. 

In the fall, Nelson was named to the second team of the ESPN The Magazine Academic All-America Team, as announced by COSIDA Wednesday morning.  Mayer was named to the first team All-District at the end of October, which gave him an automatic spot on the All-America ballot.

Nelson is a senior who will graduate in May with a degree in Naval Architecture.  His cumulative GPA stands at 3.74 and he will be graduating with over 180 credits.  He will also receive his Coast Guard Engine License upon graduating.

Asked what he thought about being an Academic All-American, Mayer commented, “It's an honor.  It was an honor to be named to the All-District team, but now I have been recognized on the National level.  I've worked very hard to be where I am at now, and it really has paid off.”

Maritime's Athletic Director, Dick Hack added “He has distinguished himself and the college through his academic and athletic achievements.  On behalf of the Athletic Department, I congratulate Mr. Nelson on his achievements and wish him the best of luck in the future post-Maritime.”