CALDWELL, Idaho - College of Idaho distance runner Daniel Butler capped off a legendary career with one of the nation's top academic honors, earning a spot on the College Sports Communicators Academic All-America Team for men's track and field and cross country.
Butler adds the prestigious academic award to a season and career filled with accolades. A six-time NAIA All-American, he played a pivotal role in leading the Yotes to the 2024 NAIA Men's Cross Country National Championship, the first in program history.
During the fall, Butler was named Cascade Collegiate Conference Runner of the Year after winning the individual conference title. He earned three CCC Runner of the Week honors and was twice named NAIA National Runner of the Week. He finished sixth at the NAIA Championships, earning his third All-American honor and helping College of Idaho to a team national title. His performance also earned him USTFCCCA West Region Runner of the Year honors, and he clocked the fastest 8K time in school history.
In indoor track, Butler broke school records in the mile and 3,000 meters. He earned All-American honors in the mile with a national runner-up finish and placed eighth in the distance medley relay, bringing his career total to five.
He added to that total in the outdoor season, winning CCC titles in both the 1,500 and 5,000 meters before placing fifth in the 10,000 meters at the NAIA Championships to earn his sixth All-American honor. Earlier in the season, he set the school record in the 10,000 meters at the Mike Fanelli Track Classic in April, continuing his trend of rewriting the record book.
Butler was just as impressive in the classroom, maintaining a high academic standard to qualify for CSC Academic All-America recognition. The award honors student-athletes who hold at least a 3.50 GPA and have made significant contributions to their sport. Daniel maintained this academic excellence both through the completion of his undergraduate degree last spring, and his sports administration certificate this school year.
The honor serves as a fitting final chapter in Butler's storied career, recognizing both his excellence on the track and his commitment in the classroom.
