UW-Whitewater's Jared Kiesow (Horicon/Horicon) was named the recipient of the Elite 88 award for the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division III Football Championship.

Kiesow, an elementary major and science minor, currently holds a 3.88 grade point average. He has been honored on the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference honor roll and the UW-W honor roll twice (2008-09, 2009-10). As an athlete the junior defensive back has participated in the NCAA Division III National Championship, the Stagg Bowl, the previous two seasons (2008 and 2009) and aided Whitewater in the return trip this season. Kiesow will be presented with the award during the football banquet Friday afternoon in Salem, Virginia.

The Elite 88 is an award founded by the NCAA that recognizes the true essence of the student-athlete by honoring the individual who has reached the pinnacle of competition at the national championship level in his or her sport, while also achieving the highest academic standard among his or her peers. The Elite 88 is presented to the student-athlete with the highest cumulative grade point average participating at the finals site for each of the NCAA's 88 championships.

To be considered eligible, student-athletes must be sophomores or higher in standing and have participated in their sport for at least two years with their school. They must be an active member of the team, traveling and a designated member of the squad size at the championship. All ties are broken by the number of credits completed.

For additional information on the Elite 88 award please go to NCAA.com/elite88.