ORLANDO, Fla. – Anthony Wheeler , a linebacker at The University of Texas, has been named PlayMaker of the Month for April by the National Consortium for Academics & Sports (NCAS). The PlayMaker of the Month Award recognizes the academic achievement and community service efforts of student-athletes at NCAS member institutions. Honorees are nominated by coaches, administrators and teammates and must carry a 3.0 grade point average and be active in the community or social change advocacy.



Wheeler, a native of Dallas, is being recognized for his leadership, academics and commitment to service in the Austin community. Academically, he's a two-time Big 12 Commissioner's Honor Roll honoree and two-time Athletic Director's Honor Roll recipient. Following his freshman year, he was named to the All-Big 12 Academic Rookie team. Within the Austin community, Wheeler has participated on the "Explore UT Student-Athlete Panel," a leadership panel to meet with elementary students in the community. He has also participated in the Millennium Youth Complex, interacting with children during a service event. Wheeler carries a 3.12 GPA.



For 32 years, the mission of the NCAS has been to "use the power of sport to affect positive social change." The organization educates and empowers individuals and organizations by inspiring values-based thinking, leading to actions that promote social responsibility and equality. The NCAS has improved college student-athlete graduation rates, advocates for issues of diversity that plague athletic organizations, and creates programs to affect social change in sports and society.