Austin Bragg, Cody Guthrie, Carmen LaFond, and Deborah Simmers

Four talented sophomores have been named the Clark College Student Athletes of the Month for Nov. and Dec. 2011. Austin Bragg, Cody Guthrie, Carmen LaFond, and Deborah Simmers were honored for their performances on Clark’s soccer, volleyball and basketball teams.

November’s student athletes were Guthrie and LaFond. Guthrie was captain of the men’s soccer team and quarterback of its defense. Guthrie has been selected for the Northwest Athletic Association of Community Colleges (NWAACC) All-Star Team. LaFond recently finished her sophomore season with the Lady Penguin volleyball team. She led the team in digs and was second on the team in serve reception and serving aces. She is sixth overall in the NWAACC for digs, averaging more than five per game.

December’s student athletes were Bragg and Simmers. Bragg is a 6’8” wing/forward on the men’s basketball team. Bragg is a Division I transfer from Washington State University. Bragg is currently being recruited by more than 15 universities. A chemistry major, Bragg is carrying a 3.18 grade point average. Simmers is a returning student from Alaska and leads the women’s basketball team in scoring and rebounds, with a total of 205 points and 54 rebounds.

The Athlete of the Month program recognizes both the academic and athletic achievements of Clark’s athletes. Two recipients are selected each month by a committee that includes coaches, athletic department personnel, and students. Each honoree receives a jacket with his or her name embroidered on it. The jackets are provided by Les Schwab in partnership with Clark’s Penguin Athletic Club and the Clark College Foundation. Information about Clark’s athletic programs, teams, student athletes and coaches can be found at www.clarkpenguins.com.