The term "student-athlete" is not an empty phrase to Marcus Hong.

It's a credo, a way of conducting yourself in the pool and in the classroom.

The bright Saint Ignatius swimmer and student received recognition for his efforts this past week. Just weeks after graduating from Wildcat High, Hong received the 2017 OHSAA Scholarship Award from the Ohio High School Athletic Association. 

The OHSAA granted Hong a $750 scholarship for his education next fall at Kenyon College. Hong will swim for the Lords, an elite Division III institution known for excellent academics and an outstanding swimming program. 

Hong excelled in the pool and in the classroom for the blue and gold during a bright four years at Saint Ignatius. Hong's swimming career as a Wildcat culminated in a break-through at the OHSAA Division I Boys Swimming Championships. The senior clinched several second place finishes and a school record along the way, guiding the Wildcats to runner-up status for the first time since 2000.

"Marcus is a special young man and student-athlete," said Athletic Director Rory Fitzpatrick '88. "He is the perfect example of an Ignatius man who works hard in athletics, while also dedicating a great deal of time to the classroom. We're very excited for Marcus and the bright future he has in front of him."

Congratulations to Marcus – we wish him the best of luck at Kenyon!