By: Nolan Alexander
KENNESAW, Ga. - Kennesaw State University Athletics honored its top student-athletes at the annual Owls' Choice Awards held at VyStar Arena. The ceremony, organized by the KSU Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), recognized outstanding achievements in athletics, academics, leadership, and character across all 18 KSU sports programs for the winter, spring, and fall 2025 seasons.
The event was hosted by men's basketball's Charles Stone and track and field's Lilly Chouinard. The hosts guided attendees through an evening celebrating the values and accomplishments that define Owl Nation.
In a historic moment, Stone became the first student-athlete in KSU history to win Teammate of the Year for four consecutive years. The men's basketball team captain also took home the Biggest Hoot award. Football's Gabriel Benyard and track and field's Kali Terza were named Players of the Year, while baseball's Wesley Alig and lacrosse's Lexi Tinker earned Rookie of the Year honors.
Award Winners
Player of the Year
Male: Gabriel Benyard (Football)
Female: Kali Terza (Track and Field)
Rookie of the Year
Male: Wesley Alig (Baseball)
Female: Lexi Tinker (Lacrosse)
Teammate of the Year
Male: Chuck Stone (Men's Basketball)*
Female: Lauren Dobbs (Lacrosse)
*First student-athlete to win four consecutive years
Biggest Hoot
Male: Chuck Stone (Men's Basketball)
Female: Ava Garner (Volleyball)
Perseverance Award
Male: Nolan Sliver (Baseball)
Female: Alena Motiejunas (Lacrosse)
Wise Owl
Male: Britton Williams (Football)
Female: Manu Johnsen (Volleyball)
Iron Owl
Male: Harry Cain (Baseball)
Female: Mai Jensen (Soccer)
Game Face Award
Male: Trey Geter (Track and Field)
Female: Lilly Chouinard (Track and Field)
Best Dressed
Male: Brian Limo (Track and Field)
Female: Charlee Bernal (Soccer)
The Owls' Choice Awards represents a student-athlete-driven celebration, with nominees and winners selected through voting by their peers. This approach ensures the recognition authentically reflects the experiences and values of KSU's student-athlete community.
