At the close of the 2024–25 academic year, the Warren Wilson College Athletic Department gathered to celebrate the achievements, leadership, and dedication of our student-athletes. Despite a year marked by challenges—including a shortened fall season due to Hurricane Helene—our teams and individuals demonstrated resilience and commitment across all sports. Each varsity program presented two honors—the MVP Award and the Fighting Owl Award—while several department-wide awards recognized exceptional contributions to athletics, academics, leadership, and community.

Team Awards

Women's Cross Country

Senior Tabitha McBrayer, from Beaufort, South Carolina, earned the Fighting Owl Award for her consistent leadership and unwavering presence across all four years. Known for her focus and calm determination, Tabitha helped guide a young team during a difficult season cut short by Hurricane Helene, serving as a role model and steadying force throughout.

Freshman Bella Sosa of Dallas, Texas, was named MVP for her breakout debut season. Competing in both cross country and track, Bella quickly became the Owls' top runner, with a highlight 8th-place finish at the Yeti Invitational in 22:33.8. Her poise and athleticism signal a bright future.

Men's Cross Country

Senior Sam Kobylarz of Pawley's Island, South Carolina, received the Fighting Owl Award after setting a personal record at the Yeti Invitational (39:31.6 in the 8k). His positive attitude, perseverance, and steady progress over two seasons helped anchor the team during a disrupted year.

Junior Henry Berta, from Seattle, Washington, earned MVP honors for leading the team with consistency and smart racing strategy. His two 6th-place finishes—including a standout 29:44.8 in the 8k at the Yeti Invitational—highlighted a season of competitive strength and leadership.

Women's Basketball

Sophomore Weronika Swojak, from Warsaw, Poland, received the Fighting Owl Award for her incredible work ethic and resilience. Ranking 13th nationally in rebounds per game, Weronika amassed over 550 rebounds and 501 points in just two seasons, and is constantly working to better herself and her team.

Freshman Ellie Martin, from Grove City, Pennsylvania, was named MVP after taking command as the starting point guard in every game. Her 10.5 points per game, quick hands (58 steals), and composure made her a leader on the court and a key contributor to every game plan.

Men's Basketball

Junior Nas Cotton, from Tampa, Florida, was honored with the Fighting Owl Award for his tenacity, character, and impact on the team. A three-year leader in the paint, Nas totaled 317 points, 258 rebounds, and 44 blocks, becoming the Owls' defensive cornerstone and a force in the locker room.

Freshman Peyton Gonzales, from Richardson, Texas, earned MVP honors after leading the team in rebounds, assists, steals, and minutes played. Scoring 155+ points in his first season, Peyton's confidence, IQ, and competitiveness made him an irreplaceable presence.

Women's Cycling

Freshman Ellery Rather of Bend, Oregon, received the Fighting Owl Award for her reliability, willingness to learn, and early success on the bike. A cross-country race win at Lees-McRae was a season highlight, and her consistency set the tone for the team's culture.

Senior Jocie Funderburk of Bozeman, Montana, was named MVP after becoming the only female cyclist from WWC to compete at nationals. Her decision to finish her race despite crashing at the start showed her grit and leadership by example.

Men's Cycling

Freshman Gabriel Adler from Columbus, Ohio, earned the Fighting Owl Award for his passion, energy, and love of the sport. His ability to inspire others through humor and determination helped make the team more cohesive and motivated.

Junior Izaak Eichinger from Decorah, Iowa, was awarded MVP for racing at a very high level while mentoring teammates, communicating with coaches, and leading the program with maturity and drive.

Women's Soccer

Senior Lizzie Potter of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, received the Fighting Owl Award for her durability and mental toughness. She played nearly every minute of every match, serving as the engine of the team with her relentless tempo, fearlessness, and physical intensity.

Senior Kyra Collins of St. Louis, Missouri, was named MVP after a career marked by consistency, excellence, and leadership. A true anchor on the field and off, Kyra's commitment and competitive energy elevated the entire program and left a lasting legacy.

Men's Soccer

Senior Colter Conway from Boone, North Carolina, earned the Fighting Owl Award for his joy, work rate, and infectious energy. Colter held himself to the highest standard and never stopped pushing—whether in practice or on game day. His leadership lifted the entire squad.

Juniors John Rhoden (Spartanburg, South Carolina) and Benjamin Soto (Newton, North Carolina) were named co-MVPs for their defensive consistency and leadership. Logging the most minutes on the team, both players helped stabilize the squad through a challenging season.

Women's Lacrosse

Junior Callie Aerni from Marshall, North Carolina, received the Fighting Owl Award for her leadership and commitment. A team captain, Callie finished with 22 goals and 18 assists while mentoring younger players and helping shape team culture.

Junior Sydney Weber of Ashburn, Virginia, was named MVP after a record-breaking season. With 75 goals, 113 draw controls, and national rankings in multiple categories, Sydney emerged as one of the top attackers in Division III and a game-changing force every time she stepped on the field.

Men's Lacrosse

Freshman Ryan Kiser from Newport News, Virginia, earned the Fighting Owl Award for his rapid development and strong defensive presence. In his first season, he made a name for himself as a hard worker with a willingness to learn and a team-first mindset.

Sophomore goalie Anthony Varela from Compton, California, received MVP honors after leading the NCAA in saves per game (18.13) and totaling 226 saves this season. His ability to anchor the defense and inspire those around him made him the heart of the team.

Women's Swimming

Junior captain Elena Wheeler from Salida, Colorado, earned the Fighting Owl Award for her leadership, encouragement, and deep commitment to team success. Her selflessness and reliability have shaped the culture of women's swimming.

Freshman Sarina Maki from Ishpeming, Michigan, was also honored with the Fighting Owl Award for her contagious positivity and dedication after transferring to WWC. Sarina's presence uplifted teammates every day.

Freshman Maureen Tyne of Orono, Maine, was named MVP after finishing 4th in the 200 backstroke and posting two other top-10 finishes at the conference championship. Her performance marked one of the strongest in program history.

Men's Swimming

Sophomore Shiva Humek from Hillsborough, North Carolina, received the Fighting Owl Award for his dedication to the team, steady progress, and constant support of his peers. A true team player, Shiva leads with humility and joy.

Junior Tato Harvey from Salem, Oregon, was named MVP after earning top finishes in the 1650, 200, and 500 freestyle races. As the team's top scorer, Tato consistently delivered strong swims and valuable leadership.

Women's Triathlon

Freshman Maureen Tyne earned her second honor with the Fighting Owl Award for her passion, team-first mentality, and excellent swimming and cycling ability. Her infectious energy helped build camaraderie and push the team forward.

Senior Lola Hewitt from New York City was awarded MVP after finishing 8th at the Rumpus in Bumpass and consistently showing up with purpose, heart, and leadership. She was the steady presence that held the team together all season.

Women's Rugby

Junior Sabine Costello-Sanders of Bar Harbor, Maine, earned the Fighting Owl Award for their focus on development and growth. Always seeking feedback, offering ideas, and trying out for new teams, Sabine embodied the mindset of a player committed to improvement and team success.

Senior Ella Knecht of Duxbury, Massachusetts, was named MVP for her dominance on both sides of the ball. As the team's leading try-scorer and top tackler, Ella played almost every minute of every game and led by example in toughness, accountability, and effort.

Women's Volleyball

Sophomore Alaina Castengera from Jacksonville, Florida, received the Fighting Owl Award for her impressive growth and steady contributions to the team. With more than 200 assists in just two seasons, Alaina's work ethic and maturity made her a key part of the team's future.

Senior KJ Helinsky, also from Jacksonville, earned MVP after leading the conference in kills per set and earning All-Conference honors—despite the season ending early. A model of consistency and leadership, KJ set the standard for the program.

Men's Volleyball

Freshman Tucker Jeffrey from Greensboro, North Carolina, earned the Fighting Owl Award for his rapid improvement and willingness to step up in his first season of competitive volleyball. With a bright future ahead, he is poised to be a leader next year.

Sophomore RJ Daly from Swansboro, North Carolina, received MVP after stepping into multiple positions—setter, outside hitter, and defensive specialist—while posting 33 kills, 7 assists, and 27 digs in just 10 games. His selflessness and adaptability kept the team competitive.

Departmental Awards

The Andy Summers Award – Recognizing the Heart of a Champion

This award honors a student-athlete who exemplifies compassion, dedication, and the true spirit of community. It is named in memory of Andy Summers, the beloved minister of students at Warren Wilson College, who rarely missed a game. Andy believed in the power of sport to bring people together, to heal, and to inspire. He was known for his unwavering support, love of competition, and ability to find joy and humor in all situations. The recipients of this award carry that legacy forward through their actions, presence, and integrity.

• Demarshaun Worley: A senior from Fayetteville, North Carolina, Demarshaun Worley has been a shining example of grace in adversity. After suffering a serious knee injury at the end of his junior season, he could have easily stepped away from the game—but instead, he leaned in deeper. Transitioning into a coaching and mentorship role, Demarshaun became an assistant coach for the men's basketball team, providing support, guidance, and insight drawn from his years on the court. All the while, he continued to excel as a business major, a residential assistant (RA), and a work crew leader, balancing academics, leadership, and service with humility and heart. Known for his passion for the game, his deep care for those around him, and his belief in lifting others up, Demarshaun has left an impact on Owl Athletics that will be felt for years to come.

• Phebe Finch-Raymond: A senior from Minneapolis, Minnesota, Phebe Finch-Raymond has been a foundational figure in the women's rugby program since its inaugural season three years ago. From the very beginning, Phebe has been a constant source of calm, positivity, and support—on and off the field. Her teammates describe her as the glue that holds the team together, someone who brings both strength and gentleness to every interaction. Phebe leads with quiet determination, always looking out for the emotional and physical wellbeing of those around her. She models inclusivity, kindness, and resilience in everything she does, embodying the essence of what it means to be a champion in spirit and in community.

The Kevin Omolo Award – Academic and Athletic Excellence

This award honors the student-athletes with the highest GPA who have also made significant contributions to their teams. It is named in memory of Kevin Omolo, a Jamaican basketball player at Warren Wilson whose life embodied the ideals of the student-athlete: balance, integrity, and quiet determination. Kevin was known for his strong work ethic, deep humility, and unwavering commitment to both academic excellence and athletic competition before his life was tragically cut short in a car accident on Mother's Day.

• Everett Isom: A senior cyclist and biology major from St. Louis, Missouri, Everett graduated with a 3.92 GPA. His dedication to the classroom has been matched by his commitment to his sport, where he has shown consistency, focus, and leadership as a member of the cycling team. Everett exemplifies the kind of balance that this award celebrates—pursuing academic excellence while showing up every day to train, support his teammates, and represent Warren Wilson with integrity. He has earned the respect of his coaches and professors alike, and his success is a reflection of his quiet discipline and internal drive.

• Jocie Funderburk: A senior from Bozeman, Montana, Jocie majored in Outdoor Leadership and graduated with an extraordinary 3.99 GPA. She was the only female cyclist from Warren Wilson to qualify for nationals this year—a feat made even more remarkable by the adversity she faced at the championship race. After crashing at the very start, Jocie chose to continue and finish what she had started, embodying not only athletic perseverance but the resilience of spirit that defines this award. Jocie's academic performance and athletic commitment are a testament to her strength, focus, and the kind of leadership that makes her a role model for future Owls.

The Klein Seeholtz Award – Recognizing Athletic Achievement

This award is presented to the most accomplished male and female athletes of the year—those who have achieved consistent athletic excellence while making a meaningful impact on their teams and the broader athletics community. It is named in honor of two important figures in Warren Wilson's history: Dr. Klein, a professor and assistant soccer coach who played a vital role in supporting international student-athletes, and Art Seesholtz, the legendary men's basketball coach who led the Owls during their most successful era in the early 1970s.

• Timmy Carcel: A senior from Asheville, North Carolina, Timmy Carcel has been one of the most versatile and dedicated athletes on campus over the past four years. Competing in men's lacrosse, swimming, and cross country, Timmy stepped into multiple roles—often on short notice—to help support and elevate his teams. His commitment was never limited to competition. Timmy has been one of the most visible supporters of Owl Athletics, often found cheering from the stands, announcing games, or volunteering behind the scenes at events. Whether he was in uniform or holding a mic, Timmy brought joy, energy, and a deep love for the Warren Wilson community. His athletic journey reflects not just personal achievement, but a selfless dedication to the success of others.

• Kyra Collins: Hailing from St. Louis, Missouri, Kyra Collins has left an indelible mark on Owl Athletics through her skill, resilience, and leadership. She played four standout seasons with the women's soccer team, anchoring the midfield with poise, toughness, and a competitive edge that elevated everyone around her. In addition to her soccer career, Kyra contributed to the lacrosse and triathlon programs, bringing her work ethic and adaptability into new challenges. Across every sport she touched, Kyra led with quiet confidence and fierce determination. Her consistency, versatility, and all-around athleticism set the standard for what it means to be a multi-sport collegiate athlete at Warren Wilson.

The Donna Read Award – Spirit of Community and Competition

This award is presented to student-athletes who embody the heart of Warren Wilson Athletics. Named for a beloved champion of college athletics, this honor recognizes those whose love of the game, loyalty to teammates, and resilience through adversity leave a lasting mark on their team and community.

• Jude Searles: A senior from Manahawkin, New Jersey, Jude is the second all-time leading scorer in the history of Warren Wilson men's lacrosse. But his legacy goes far beyond goals. Jude is the kind of athlete who constantly seeks to improve—not just his own game, but the performance and experience of his teammates. He has played attack, midfield, and long-stick middie, always stepping into whatever role the team needed without hesitation. His energy, leadership, and belief in the power of team have helped shape the culture of the lacrosse program and inspired others to lead with humility, intensity, and joy.

• Madyson Hendrie: A senior from Clyde, North Carolina, Madyson is a shining example of perseverance and positivity. After suffering a devastating knee injury, she faced a long and grueling recovery process—but she never let the setback define her. Madyson remained a constant presence and source of support for the women's soccer team, attending every practice, game, and meeting even when she couldn't play. Her senior year return to the field was a triumph of determination and spirit, and throughout her journey, she continued to bring warmth, encouragement, and an infectious love for the game to everyone around her. Her impact on the team will be felt for years to come.

The Athletic Director Award – Service to Athletics

This award recognizes student-athletes who go above and beyond in supporting the Warren Wilson Athletics Department. Whether through committee involvement, helping with events, mentoring teammates, or consistently representing the spirit of the department, these recipients have made a lasting impact far beyond their own sports.

• Jenna Onderko: A senior from Tampa, Florida, Jenna has been a three-sport athlete during her time at Warren Wilson, competing in women's basketball, lacrosse, and rugby. Her contributions extended well beyond the court and field—she has been a steady leader, and a vocal advocate for student-athletes. Whether she was stepping into a new sport, or encouraging teammates behind the scenes, Jenna led with heart, grit, and unwavering Owl pride.

• Syd Rivera: Hailing from Marietta, Georgia, Syd was a dedicated two-year member of the women's rugby team. Known for her reliability, positive presence, and selfless commitment to her team, Syd showed up for every practice, every game, and every moment her teammates needed her. She did the little things—early arrivals, quiet encouragement, hard work—that helped hold her team together and strengthen the spirit of Warren Wilson Athletics.

• Tabitha McBrayer: A senior from Beaufort, South Carolina, Tabitha ran all four years with the women's cross country team, becoming a quiet but influential leader within the program. Her determination, consistency, and thoughtfulness set the tone for her team, and her presence extended far beyond race days. Tabitha led by example, supported other student-athletes, and consistently represented the values of the athletic department with maturity and grace.

Congratulations to all our honorees, and thank you to every student-athlete, coach, and supporter who made this season a meaningful part of the Warren Wilson story.