TUCSON, Ariz. — C.A.T.S. Academics today announced that Sam Iida (Men's Swimming and Diving), Noah Reid (Men's Swimming and Diving), Paige Whipple (Volleyball), and Sharlize Palacios (Softball) have been selected as Student Athletes of the Month for October.

These students were recognized for their commitment to earning their undergraduate degree, the ability to maximize their academic potential, and their dedication to academic improvement and growth. They were chosen as Student Athletes of the Month by the C.A.T.S. Academic staff.

Iida is a Senior from Glenview, Ill pursuing a major in Psychology. He holds two all-time top-ten times in Arizona school history (200 breast - 7th, 400 IM - 7th) and finished the 2018-19 season with the fastest time on the team in 100 breast (53.11).

"Sam has always had very high standards for himself in the pool, in the weight room, and in the classroom, " counselor Aaron Davis said. "This year, he has found his voice as a leader and is realizing the mountain of potential he has moving forward. It's been great to work closer with him this semester, and I'm excited to see where the future takes him." 

Reid is a Senior from Kansas City, Mo. He is a Management Information Systems major who has earned CSCAA Scholar All-American Honorable mention in the 400 medley relay for the 2018-19 season. 

"Noah is a two time captain for the Swim Team. He is a vocal leader who serves an excellent role model for other student athletes to follow," counselor Corey Talley said. "We can always count on Noah to do the right thing in and out of the classroom. It has been a pleasure to watch this student grow so much over the years. Excited to see what the future brings to him."

Whipple is a Senior from Salem, Ore. She is pursuing a degree is Family Studies & Human Development. In the 2019 season she turned in one of the most productive seasons by an outside hitter in the Pac-12 finishing 6th in the league and 57th in the NCAA.

"Paige is an exceptional student-athlete on and off the court. Over the last year she has taken on more of a leadership role within her team and has really stepped it up academically," counselor Courtney Merkle said. "She is someone people can always depend on to get the job done and sets a good example for those around her. I know she will be successful in whatever she chooses to do beyond college!"

Palacious is Redshirt Freshman from Chula Vista, Calif. She is Pre-Business major who, during her first season at Arizona, was the primary catcher (starting in 13 games). Prior to the UA she was a four-year letter winner and a two-time all-conference performer. 

"Sharlize had an amazing freshman year where she worked hard and was able to achieve all her academic goals," counselor Sarah Barber said. "She has impressed me with her hard work and ability to adapt and find success in her academics. There is nothing she can't do when she puts her mind to it.