By The NSIC

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - Conner Meldrim of Minot State University earned the NSIC Elite 18 Award for baseball as he was honored prior to the Beavers opening round game in the NSIC Baseball Tournament, which is taking place Wednesday-Saturday in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. 

As part of the NSIC 25th Anniversary celebration during the 2016-17 academic year, the NSIC Elite 18 Award was instituted to recognize the true essence of the student-athlete by honoring the individual who has reached the pinnacle of competition at the NSIC Championship level in his or her sport, while also achieving the highest academic standard among his or her peers. The NSIC Elite 18 award is presented to the student-athlete with the highest cumulative grade-point average participating at the finals site for each of the NSIC's 18 Championships.

Meldrim is a senior majoring in exercise science and rehabilitation and holds a 4.00 grade point average.  The Las Vegas native, Meldrim has compiled a 5-3 record with three saves during the 2026 season, posting an impressive 2.09 ERA over 38.2 innings with 40 strikeouts. A consistent contributor out of the bullpen throughout his career, he has appeared in 49 games with 88 career strikeouts across 80.1 innings pitched. In addition to his athletic success, Meldrim has excelled academically, earning multiple President's List honors and a spot on the NSIC All-Academic Team of Excellence.