General | 4/19/2024 3:22:00 PM

Stallion News brings you the latest scoop from the NAU Athletics Awards Banquet!

In a glittering celebration of athletic prowess and camaraderie, the NAU Stallion Athletics Awards Banquet dazzled spectators at The Grand Techniplex Meeting Hall. Hosted by the indomitable Dr. Donald Gary, the evening unfolded with all the fanfare befitting the Stallions' finest.

A chorus of cheers erupted as Alejandro Noboa and Suzette Baltazar clinched the coveted MVP soccer titles, their stellar performances echoing through the halls of NAU. But they weren't alone in basking in the limelight. Joseph Figuero, Crystal Gonzalez, Denalie Cortes, and Evelyn Rosendez joined the ranks of excellence with their well-deserved Coach's Awards.

Dorienn Lewis-Bell and Anaya Owens soared to new heights, claiming the MVP crowns in Girls' Track and Field, while Joshua Williams emerged triumphant as the Most Improved among the Boys. But let's not forget the heart and soul of the team, MVP Jesse Adams, while Nicholas Hatcher, and Taylor McGinn, whose dedication earned them Coach's Awards.

In the realm of physical fitness, Jason Reaves emerged as the epitome of strength and resilience of the NAU football team, seizing the esteemed Iron Stallion Award. And let's give a roaring round of applause to Jamarric Hammond, Joseph Figueroa, and Andres Santos for their outstanding contributions to Men's Soccer and Basketball.

Coach Stephen Butler introduced a new accolade, the "Different Breed" Award, recognizing athletes who embody the Stallion spirit in every stride. Jesper Korkalainen exemplified this ethos in Football, a testament to perseverance and unwavering dedication.

With Kierra Rivers leading the charge, Women's Basketball clinched Female Athlete of the year and with her team, Team of the Year, while Jalon Clark propelled Men's Basketball to new heights. And let's not forget the unsung heroes, the dedicated coaches, assistant coaches, and student assistants who nurture the Stallions' potential day in and day out.

Beyond the courts and fields, the Stallions demonstrated their unwavering commitment to community service, amassing over 800 hours of volunteer work. A round of applause for their selflessness and dedication to making a difference beyond the game.

As the dust settles on another unforgettable awards banquet, the Stallions set their sights on the track, ready to take on the region's best at the Rice University Relays. So mark your calendars, rally your spirit, and join us in cheering on our Stallions as they continue to soar to new heights!

That's a wrap for this edition of Stable Talk. Until next time, keep those hooves up, Stallions, and remember, we're always rooting for you!
To see  a slide show of the banquet click https://northamericanuniversity.pixieset.com/nauathleticsbanquet2024/ 

Gooooooooooooooooooo STALLIONSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!

Written by Rev. Justin C. Jackson, Sports Information Director at NAU.