ORONO – The University of Maine field hockey team had eight student-athletes named to the 2006 National Field Hockey Coaches Association Division I National Academic squad announced on Monday.

Only Vermont with 11 selections had more among America East Teams than the Black Bears.

Christine Mosley of Hampden, Joanna Fernandes, and Erin Reusch all received NFHCA National Academic squad honors for the third time in their careers. Nicole Emery of Winthrop and Rebecca Giroux of Augusta were honored for the second time. Mallory Anderson, Gina Legge and Mallory Shute of Norridgewock were selected for the first time.

The National Academic Squad recognizes those student-athletes who have achieved a minimum 3.3 grade point average through the first semester.

Maine was also one of 55 teams to earn the National Academic Team Award, recognizing teams which have compiled a 3.0 or higher team grade point average. Maine was one of four America East schools honored with the team award.