Ithaca College announced that sophomore first baseman Ethan Fantel has been selected to the third team of the College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-America teams for the 2026 baseball season, a distinction that places him among the elite scholars in collegiate athletics.
A Dual Commitment to Excellence
Fantel carries a cumulative GPA of 3.90 in sports media, reflecting a dedication to both scholarship and sport. His academic prowess was further acknowledged when he earned a spot on the Liberty League All-Academic team, underscoring a balance that few student‑athletes achieve.
On the diamond, Fantel delivered a breakout performance, batting .444 over 35 games while driving in 58 runs. He posted a .584 on‑base percentage, reached base in every game, and strung together a 17‑game hitting streak that helped the team maintain momentum throughout the season.
His statistical impact was recognized beyond the classroom, as he was named Fifth Team All‑American by D3baseball.com and earned the Liberty League Player of the Year award. Fantel also ranks fifth on the single‑season RBI list and stands alone as the only player in the top ten to surpass 50 RBIs in 40 games or fewer.
Program Milestones and Future Outlook
Fantel’s achievement marks the 120th time a student‑athlete from Ithaca College has been honored with CSC Academic All‑America status, a testament to the institution’s commitment to developing well‑rounded leaders. As he looks ahead, the sophomore aims to build on his record‑setting career and continue contributing to both the team’s success and the college’s academic reputation.