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East Michigan News

Saturday, April 19, 2025

Eastern Michigan University honors standout achievements at annual YPSI Awards Show

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Eagle Crest Golf Club | Eastern Michigan University Athletics

Eagle Crest Golf Club | Eastern Michigan University Athletics

A celebratory atmosphere enveloped the George Gervin GameAbove Center as the Eastern Michigan University Department of Athletics held its ninth annual YPSI Awards Show. This event took place on Wednesday, April 16, and brought together a diverse group from the EMU community to honor the exceptional achievements in athletics during the 2024-25 academic year.

The ceremony highlighted a range of categories, recognizing various accomplishments across Eastern Michigan's 19 varsity sports programs. It was a night filled with festivities, as hosts Emma Wyss from rowing and Bryce Llewellyn from football guided the audience through the event.

Significant honors were conferred during the night. Da'Sean Nelson of men's basketball and Mackenzie Blackwell of lacrosse received the Male and Female Student-Athletes of the Year awards, respectively, for their remarkable contributions. Riley Kim of women's golf earned the Breakthrough Student-Athlete of the Year title, while gymnast Gwen Cantu was named the Comeback Student-Athlete of the Year.

The Men's and Women's Cross Country and Track & Field team was awarded Team of the Year, acknowledging their outstanding performance and competitiveness. Justin Jefferson from football was presented with the Julie Lombardi Leadership & Eagle Spirit Award.

Academic achievements were also celebrated, with Scholar-Athlete of the Year awards going to Zach Mowchan for a 3.878 GPA in Finance and Olivia Clarino, who maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA in Biochemistry. Dr. Catherine Gammon received the title of Professor of the Year, and Gabe Schmidt was recognized as the Support Staff of the Year.

The evening included additional accolades: Jalen Terry for Best Performance in men's basketball, and volleyball clinching the Eagle Cup. The Eagles U Achievement Award was given to Roya Khaleeli of lacrosse, and Stephanie Rosales received recognition for her service as Director of Athletic Counseling. The year’s outstanding assistants and coaches were also acknowledged, with Allison Lane and Katie Minasola earning the titles of Assistant Coach and Coach of the Year, respectively.

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