The City University of New York Athletic Conference annually recognizes its best and brightest student-athletes, who not only excel in athletics, but succeed in the classroom as well. Over the next few weeks, CUNYAC will recognize those who truly embody what it means to be a student-athlete. The award is presented by Hospital for Special Surgery, the official hospital of the CUNY Athletic Conference.
Jesus Patino Muniz, a member of the Hunter College men's soccer team, holds a 3.21 grade-point average, majoring in Urban Studies with a minor in Geography.
Muniz was a four-year letter winner and standout performer for the Hawks, appearing in 54 games with 29 goals and 13 assists for a total of 71 points. He was voted CUNYAC Rookie of the Year in 2016 and earned Second Team All-Star laurels in both 2016 and 2017.
This year, Muniz was crowned CUNYAC Player of the Year, becoming the first Hawk to earn the citation since Dragos Herinean earned the nod in 1999. The midfielder amassed 10 goals and seven assists for 17 points, highlighted by a conference-best four game-winning scores. The Brooklyn native led Hunter to a 6-1 record against league opposition, reaching the CUNYAC Championship Game for the first time since 2017 and earning a berth into the ECAC Men's Soccer Championship.
"I am very proud of Jesus for his accomplishments both on and off the field," said Head Coach John Sanchez. "For Jesus to be recognized as Player of the Year in the conference and also be recognized for his academic success shows how much of a commitment he has made, as well as his ability to balance sports and academics."
"Performing at a high level while keeping a good balance between school and sports can be tough, especially when having to be up early for practice and be prepared to go to class right after," Muniz commented. "However, once you see that both are working out it just gives you more motivation to go out there and keep doing your best whether it be in the classroom or out on the field."
2019-20 CUNYAC/HSS Scholar-Athlete of the Year Honorable Mentions
HSS is ranked #1 in the nation for orthopedics by U.S. News & World Report for the 10th straight year. No wonder the City University of New York Athletic Conference trust HSS as their official hospital. For more information, please visit www.HSS.edu. During this time of social distancing, HSS has developed resources to adjust to working from home, located on the new HSS Feel Better From Home website.