FAIRBANKS – The University of Alaska Fairbanks Department of Athletics hosted its annual End of Year Banquet on Thursday, April 3, at the Westmark Hotel, honoring the exceptional achievements of its student-athletes, coaches, staff, and supporters throughout the 2024-25 season.
Surrounded by teammates, coaches, family, and fans, the Alaska Nanooks community gathered to reflect on a year of perseverance, excellence, and spirit. The evening featured heartfelt moments, inspirational speeches, and well-deserved recognition for those who have gone above and beyond in their contributions to Nanooks Athletics. Brock Anundson, Director of Athletics for the Alaska Nanooks, spoke on the achievements and accolades from this past season, "We are incredibly proud of our teams and award-winning student-athletes for their hard work and commitment. Their achievements in competition and the classroom this season reflect our program's strength and our community's incredible support. We look forward to building on this success in the seasons ahead and thank our graduating seniors for their dedication throughout their careers."
Jace Peters of the cross country/ski team took home two honors: the Bart LeBon Humanitarian Award and the Cary and Sarah Keller Community Service Award, recognizing his impactful service on campus and in the Fairbanks community. Kinley Erickson (Volleyball) earned the Joe Tremarello Sportsmanship Award for her unwavering respect, integrity, and dedication to fair play. Destiny Reimers (Women's Basketball) was honored with the Linda Moffitt Leadership in Courage Award for her resilience and inspirational leadership throughout the season.
The Harris Shelton Spirit of Competition Award went to Rilee White (Volleyball), embodying the true grit and competitive fire of a Nanook student-athlete. This year's Owen Tinker Fan of the Year was awarded to the Berriochoa Family, recognized for their enthusiastic and loyal support at events all season long. Top athletic honors were given to Kendall Kramer (Cross Country/Ski) as the Most Outstanding Female Athlete of the Year, and Matt Hubbarde (Hockey) as the Most Outstanding Male Athlete of the Year, both of whom delivered exceptional performances and leadership throughout the year.
Head Volleyball Coach Brian Scott was named Coach of the Year, celebrating a historic season of on-the-court excellence and team development. Behind the scenes, Brooke Larson, Assistant Athletic Director for Marketing, Sponsorships, and Fan Engagement, received Staff Member of the Year for her tireless efforts to elevate the Nanooks experience.
Academic excellence was also front and center, with Braden Birnie (Hockey) named NAAC Male Scholar-Athlete of the Year and Rosie Fordham (Cross Country/Ski) honored as NAAC Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year, both exemplifying the balance of athletic and academic commitment.
The Alaska Nanooks thank all supporters, families, and the broader Fairbanks community for their unwavering encouragement throughout the year. With the 2024-25 season in the books, the Blue and Gold now look ahead to an even brighter future.
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