Wingate’s Keshaw Named 2025 SAC Women’s Cross Country Scholar-Athlete of the Year

ROCK HILL, S.C. (TheSAC.com) – Wingate University's Riya Keshaw has been voted the 2025 South Atlantic Conference Women's Cross Country Scholar-Athlete of the Year, the league announced today.

The South Atlantic Conference Scholar-Athlete of the Year award is presented annually to one student-athlete in each championship sport and is selected by the SAC Faculty Athletic Representatives Committee. The honor recognizes excellence in academics, athletic achievement, service, and leadership.

Keshaw, a standout in the classroom, has earned high marks across her coursework in chemistry and related disciplines, consistently performing at the top of her classes. Professors highlighted her work ethic, leadership in group settings, and ability to raise the performance of those around her through preparation and communication.

On the course, Keshaw has been a key contributor for the Bulldogs throughout her career, helping elevate Wingate's women's program during one of its strongest competitive stretches. Her performances have consistently placed her among the team's top runners, contributing to conference and regional success.

Keshaw has also served as a leader within the program, known for her reliability, positive influence, and ability to connect with teammates. She has been praised for setting the tone in training and competition while embodying the values of the program, commitment, consistency, and accountability. Her coaches describe her as someone who "makes everyone around her better" through her character and presence.

2025 Women's Cross Country Scholar-Athlete Finalists
Elise McKinney, Emory & Henry
Hannah Caudill, Catawba
Jenna Pittman, Carson-Newman
Natalee Powers, Mars Hill
Riya Keshaw, Wingate – Winner
Theresa Brosthaus, Lincoln Memorial