Celebrating Excellence in Athletics: NCAC Nominees for NCAA Awards
The North Coast Athletic Conference (NCAC) has proudly announced its nominees for the prestigious NCAA Woman of the Year award and the Division III Commissioners Association (D3CA) Men’s and Women’s Sport Student-Athlete of the Year awards. Denison University’s Annabelle Calderon and Kenyon College’s Sydney Geboy are the outstanding representatives for the NCAA Woman of the Year, while Ohio Wesleyan University’s Trey Theobald joins them as a nominee for the D3CA honors. Each nominee embodies a commitment to academic success, athletic excellence, leadership, and community service, showcasing the multifaceted nature of collegiate athletics.
The NCAA Woman of the Year Award
The NCAA Woman of the Year award has been a cornerstone in recognizing graduating female student-athletes since its inception in 1991. It celebrates those who have excelled in academics, athletics, community service, and leadership. From the pool of conference-level nominees, the Woman of the Year Selection Committee will name the Top 30 honorees, which will include 10 women from each division. Ultimately, nine finalists will be selected, culminating in the announcement of the 2025 NCAA Woman of the Year at the 2026 NCAA Convention in Washington, D.C. This award serves as an enduring testament to the accomplishments and contributions of female athletes across the nation.
The D3CA Men’s and Women’s Sport Student-Athlete of the Year Awards
Similarly, the D3CA awards recognize graduating student-athletes for their exemplary combination of academic achievement, athletic success, and community involvement. The initial round of voting will occur among commissioners from ten regions, with selected honorees earning recognition as Regional Student-Athletes of the Year. This year marks the fourth iteration of these awards, which honor the dedication of student-athletes who balance rigorous academic schedules with competitive athletics.
Spotlight on Annabelle Calderon: Denison Softball
Annabelle Calderon has made an indelible mark on the Denison softball program, emerging as one of its most decorated players. Over her four-year career, she has garnered prestigious accolades, including being a two-time NFCA Catcher of the Year and a two-time First-Team All-American. Notably, she has set numerous program records, including career marks in slugging percentage and home runs. Calderon’s fierce competitive spirit led her to become the only fourth student-athlete in NCAC history to win back-to-back Player of the Year honors.
Beyond her athletic prowess, Calderon’s commitment to academics is exemplary. Graduating with a 3.79 GPA as a biology major, she has earned recognition as an Academic First-Team All-American and received the Denison Presidential Medal, the highest student honor at the university. Calderon has also been deeply committed to community service, volunteering with local organizations, and advocating for mental health awareness.
Highlighting Sydney Geboy: Kenyon Women’s Swimming & Diving
Sydney Geboy has been an integral part of Kenyon’s swimming and diving team, not just for her athletic abilities but also for her leadership qualities. With a remarkable record of achievements, she has earned All-NCAC honors and has been a key contributor to the team’s national successes, including participation in multiple NCAA Championships. Geboy holds NCAC records and played a significant role in national championship victories.
Her academic journey also shines brightly; maintaining a 3.84 GPA while double-majoring in psychology and sociology, she has been recognized as an Academic All-American multiple times. Geboy’s involvement extends beyond athletics; she has served in various leadership roles within the student-athlete community and has engaged in impactful research focusing on equity in sports, reflecting her dedication to both her studies and her values.
The Achievements of Trey Theobald: Ohio Wesleyan Men’s Track & Field
Trey Theobald has distinguished himself as a top-performing javelin thrower, earning the honor of First-Team All-American twice and breaking Ohio Wesleyan’s program records. His athletic accomplishments include a runner-up finish at the NCAA Division III Outdoor Championships and a significant contribution to his team’s success in various events.
Academically, Theobald’s achievements are equally impressive with a 3.96 GPA in biochemistry and pre-medicine. His dedication to education led him to engage in prominent undergraduate research projects, demonstrating a profound commitment to advancing knowledge in his field. In addition to his scholarly pursuits, Theobald has made significant contributions to his community, focusing on health education and mentorship, revealing a holistic approach to his role as a student-athlete.
Leadership and Service Beyond Athletics
All three nominees epitomize the essence of leadership and service, extending their impact beyond their respective sports. Each has held influential roles within student-athlete advisory committees, actively engaging in initiatives that foster community and support for fellow students. Their volunteering efforts highlight a commitment to uplifting others and advocating for important causes, from health awareness to educational support.
As the countdown to the announcement of the NCAA Woman of the Year and D3CA award winners continues, the remarkable journeys of Annabelle Calderon, Sydney Geboy, and Trey Theobald serve as a beacon of inspiration for current and future student-athletes. Through their achievements, they not only honor their respective institutions but also set the stage for future generations in collegiate athletics.