KINGSTON, R.I. – October 22, 2007 – A recent University of Rhode Island graduate has been named to The Inter-Collegiate Sailing Association 2007 All Academic Sailing Team.

Matt Kastan, who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering from URI last spring, was one of 20 scholar-athletes selected for the honor. The East Amherst, N.Y. resident was selected to the first team for his sailing and academic prowess. The sailing association recognizes 10 first team and 10 second team student- athletes who attain a 3.5 cumulative grade point average or above.

According to the association, this honor points to Kastan’s dedication and his ability to balance academics and athletics.

“I truly believe that his strong commitment and desire to always be better made him as successful as he was in sailing and academics,” said Joey Mello, Kastan’s sailing coach.

“I began as the URI coach in the fall of 2005, and at that point I became aware of his work ethic. He spent more time on the water than any of his other teammates, he was never afraid to ask questions and constantly analyzed his sailing,” said Mello.

Kastan and his URI crew, Kristen Johnson, had been sailing together for three years when, in the 2006-2007 season, they helped their team qualify for the Atlantic Coast Championships.

Maintaining strong grades is a challenge for sailing team members since the squad practices four days a week and competes during the fall and spring.

The ICSA is collegiate sailing’s governing body, and is made up of seven North American conferences established within geographic regions.

Pictured above

ACADEMIC SAILOR: Matt Kastan (rear in blue jacket) participates in spring

training with URI sailing team in Miami. The East Amherst, N.Y. resident

and URI alumnus was named to The Inter-Collegiate Sailing Association 2007

All Academic Sailing Team. Photo courtesy of Joey Mello.