McPherson, KS - July 28, 2010 - The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) announced Tuesday that the Central Christian College baseball team earned the honor of a being named a 2009-10 NAIA Scholar Team.

Out of 24 baseball teams on the NAIA Scholar Team list, the Tigers, under the direction of head coach Bob Marsh, finished third with a 3.36 grade point average during the 2009-10 academic year. Marsh noted, "In twenty years of coaching, this is my first team that has accomplished this distinction! To God be the glory!"

A record total of 857 athletic teams, an increase over last year's total of 837, received the award. For a team to be considered for the NAIA Scholar Team award, it must have a minimum 3.0 grade point average (on a 4.0 scale) as defined by the institution. The team grade point average must include all varsity student-athletes certified as eligible.

The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, is the governing body for athletics programs at its nearly 300 colleges and universities throughout the United States and Canada. The long-held mission of the NAIA is to promote the education and development of well-rounded students and productive citizens through intercollegiate athletics. The Association offers equitable access and opportunities for participation in its 23 national championship events held annually throughout the country.

Today, the NAIA strengthens its commitment to student-athletes and strives to enrich their college experience by supporting academic achievement and character development. NAIA Champions of Character is the association's innovative flagship program designed to instill character values in student-athletes, coaches and youth in the communities it serves. To learn more visit www.NAIA.org.

Since 1884, Central Christian College of Kansas (McPherson, Kansas) has served as the launching pad for thousands of graduates to gain professional competence while engaging life from a spiritual perspective. A distinctly Christian institution located in the heartland of America, Central Christian College is committed to excellence in education from a Christian worldview. Central Christian College educates and prepares servant leaders whose impact reaches throughout the world. Professors know students on a first name basis and are actively involved in helping them achieve their educational goals. The student body averages over 350 students, which provides many opportunities for involvement in academic organizations, athletics, and fine arts.