Southern Illinoise University Athletics
Royal Whitaker, Chris Kupec Named Academic All-District
11/13/2003 | 12:00:00 | Football
Nov. 13, 2003
In addition to posting a 10-0 record on the field, the Southern Illinois University football program is excelling in the classroom as two players were recognized Thursday for their combined athletic and academic achievements.
Linebacker Royal Whitaker and tight end Chris Kupec were among 23 players named to the Verizon Academic All-District V football team, which is selected by college sports information directors. District V includes all Division I-A and I-AA football teams in Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Whitaker is a sophomore from Lenexa, Kan. He is second on the team in tackles with 70 and leads the squad with three interceptions. Whitaker has a 3.44 cumulative GPA and has not declared a major. Last year, Whitaker was named to the Gateway Conference's all-freshman and all-newcomer teams. He earned national "Player of the Week" honors for his 14-tackle performance against Western Illinois.
Kupec is also a sophomore and is a part-time starter at tight end. The Columbia, Md. native has caught seven passes for 97 yards, including four touchdowns. Kupec has a 3.41 cumulative GPA and is an aviation flight major.
Both players will advance to the national Academic All-America ballot.
