Brandon Grover: A Dual-Time Champion Named NEWMAC’s 2024-2025 Student-Athlete of the Year
Salve Regina University’s Brandon Grover ’24, ’25 (MBA) has earned the prestigious title of 2024-25 NEWMAC Student-Athlete of the Year, making him one of only four honorees selected from across the New England Women’s and Men’s Athletic Conference (NEWMAC). This esteemed accolade celebrates excellence in academics, athletics, leadership, and community service, and recognizes Grover’s remarkable accomplishments both on and off the field.
Outstanding Academic and Athletic Achievements
Grover’s dedication to his studies is reflected in his summa cum laude graduation alongside his attainment of an MBA with a specialization in cybersecurity business issues, maintaining an impeccable 4.0 GPA. His academic prowess was previously recognized in 2024 when he received the NCAA Elite 90 Award for attaining the highest cumulative GPA among student-athletes competing at the NCAA Baseball Championship finals.
On the baseball diamond, Grover’s leadership and skill were instrumental in Salve Regina’s historic successes, including securing four regular-season titles, two conference championships, two regional championships, and advancing to the Division III College World Series in 2024 — a landmark achievement for the Seahawk program. His defensive excellence was honored in 2025 with the NEWMAC Defensive Athlete of the Year award. Moreover, as a four-year captain, Grover exemplified sportsmanship and dedication, earning a spot on the NEWMAC Sportsmanship Team.
Leadership and Service Beyond Athletics
A committed leader, Grover served as vice-president of Salve Regina’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, where he advocated for his peers and contributed to campus life. He credits much of his success to the wide network of support around him, from professors and coaches to campus staff, emphasizing the reciprocal impact of these relationships.
Praise from Coaches and Conference Officials
Salve’s head baseball coach Eric Cirella ’05 described Grover as a “generational talent” who embodies accountability, hard work, and the spirit of competition while uplifting those around him. NEWMAC Executive Director Patrick B. Summers echoed this sentiment, highlighting Grover as a model student-athlete whose achievements extend beyond sports and academics to positively influence teammates, classmates, and communities.
A Humble Champion with a Lasting Impact
Reflecting on his honor, Grover emphasized humility and service: “It’s never about the acknowledgments…I’m happy to be a positive light in people’s lives.” He treasures not only victories but the moments of camaraderie and emotional connection shared with teammates.
Looking Ahead
As a recipient of the NEWMAC Student-Athlete of the Year award, Brandon Grover will represent the conference for the Division III Commissioners Association Student-Athlete of the Year and NCAA Woman of the Year awards, further underscoring his status as one of collegiate athletics’ finest student-athletes.
Brandon Grover’s legacy at Salve Regina University stands as a testament to what dedication, leadership, and character can accomplish — on the field, in the classroom, and beyond.
