Rodriguez, Fischer Named Scholar All-Americans

Rodriguez Bio, NCAA Career Stats // Fischer Bio, NCAA Career Stats // 2021 Ohio State Stats

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Senior Izzy Rodriguez and junior Kayla Fischer have been named United Soccer Coaches Women’s NCAA Division I Scholar All-Americans for 2020-21.

Rodriquez, a business finance major, was named to the first team while Fischer earned second team honors.

Quoting Lori Walker-Hock, head coach of the Buckeyes

“Student-athletes around the country have managed unusual challenges this past year. Maintaining excellence and distinction amidst this year’s many distractions demonstrates a unique level of resilience, discipline and a clear-vision of achievement.

“I congratulate Izzy and admire her many intangible qualities. As a team captain, as a Scholar All-American honors student, and as an athletic All-American defender, she is among the few elite. Her professional approach to be her best in all that she represents is remarkable. Izzy sets the bar high and epitomizes the essence of a high-achieving, competitive ‘student-athlete.’

“Kayla has stepped out of the shadows this year to emerge as a dangerous attacking threat. She continues to compete in the classroom with the same vigor that she displays on the soccer field. Kayla has handled the new pressures of being a target in the limelight with a driven desire to learn and improve. She aspires to be her very best in every environment. I am proud Kayla has received recognition for her efforts this year in the classroom to bookend her many athletic accomplishments.”

Earlier this month, Rodriguez was named to the 2020-21 United Soccer Coaches All-America third team squad.

In addition, both were named 2020-21 United Soccer Coaches NCAA Division I Women Scholar All-Region (North/Central Region) and Academic All-Big Ten in the fall of 2020 as well.

On the field, Rodriguez, the 2021 Big Ten Defender of the Year, and Fischer, a forward, were named 2021 First Team All-Big Ten this spring.

To be eligible for Scholar All-America recognition, student-athletes must meet the following criteria:

• 3.40 cumulative grade point average (on a 4.0 scale) or better throughout career
• Started more than 50 percent of all games (minimum of seven games) during the season of nomination and be an elite player as supported by playing honors (ie. all-conference) and/or contributions to their team.
• Junior or above in academic standing; and, if a transfer student, in second year at school

#GoBuckeyes!