McLean County Times

Illinois Wesleyan University held its 12th annual "Tommy Awards" on April 17, recognizing the achievements of student-athletes. Sponsored by the IWU Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and State Farm Insurance, the event took place at the Shirk Center.

Caelyn Steffens from women's soccer and Jimmy Morton from men's golf received the top honors as Female and Male Athletes of the Year, respectively. The men's swimming and diving team was awarded "Academic Team of the Year" for having the highest overall grade-point average.

In other categories, Davis Nguy won Best Championship Performance (Male) for men's track and field, while Lauren Feddersen claimed Best Championship Performance (Female) in women's swimming. Caelyn Steffens also earned recognition for Best Record-Breaking Performance in women's golf.

Annalese Chudy was named Breakthrough Athlete of the Year in women's cross country/track and field. Evan Lowder received Male Rookie of the Year honors for his performance in men's track and field, with Taylor French being recognized as Female Rookie of the Year in women's volleyball.

Ryan Saxe's efforts in football secured him Best Clutch Performance. The Men's Indoor Track and Field Championship was celebrated as Best Game (Male), while Women's Golf's CCIW Championship won Best Game (Female).

Coach Recognition went to Director of Track & Field Chris Schumacher. The men's swimming and diving team led academically with a top GPA of 3.78.

Awards were also given to student-athletes with the highest GPAs in their sports, including Evan Schneider for Men's Basketball and Grace Spader for Women's Soccer.