COLLEGE PARK, Md. – Maryland men's lacrosse senior Casey Ikeda was introduced as a member of the Maryland Medallion Society at the 34th annual University Awards Banquet Sunday night.
Ikeda is one of 20 University of Maryland senior students (10 males) inducted into the society, which recognizes students who have contributed significantly to the general advancement of the interests of the University and displayed outstanding involvement and leadership in campus activities.
“The entire University of Maryland athletic department is thrilled for Casey to be honored as a member of this prestigious club,” said Maryland director of athletics Kevin Anderson. “For the last five years, Casey has exemplified the true meaning of the team 'student-athlete' through his contributions on the field, in the classroom and around the local community.”
“We're very proud of Casey and all of the things that he has accomplished during his time at Maryland,” said head coach John Tillman. “He embodies all the quality attributes of a Maryland lacrosse player. His spirited nature both on and off the field, in addition to his fantastic leadership, make him a well-deserved recipient of this award.”
A team captain and three-time NCAA Final Four team member, Ikeda is largely recognized as one of the best defenders in college lacrosse. The senior was named to the Tewaaraton Award Watch List for the nation's most outstanding player, and has been honored four times this season as the Big Ten's Defender of the Week. He has started 45 consecutive games for Maryland.
“I am so grateful to have been nominated for such a prestigious award,” Ikeda said. “It is an honor to be mentioned among the other 19 accomplished Maryland students. I am privileged to represent the Maryland men's lacrosse program and my teammates and coaches, who have enabled me to achieve so many of my goals.”
Off the field, Ikeda has assisted in setting up a youth lacrosse league through Prince George's County Parks & Recreation, while also being a part of the Big Brother program and delivering meals for the Food & Friends program in the DC area.
He is a six-time scholar athlete and a three-time Dean's List member, in addition to being honored on the 2014 All-ACC Academic team.
Ikeda was presented with a university medal and bronze Terrapin statue at the ceremony.
