Each year West Ottawa Athletics and the OK Conference names a Male and Female Athlete of the Year. This year's selection was one of the more difficult decisions in my time at West Ottawa with multiple Individual State Champions and All State honorees within the Class of 25. Our Male Athlete of the Year was a 3 year Varsity starter in Football, and Baseball and he amassed 8 Varsity Letters in 3 sports during his time in the Black and White. A Team captain for Panther Football he was named All Conference, All Area, and team MVP following the 2024 season. On the Baseball field he has led the Panthers at the plate and in center field while earning All Conference honors. He will attend Hope College to continue his academic and Football career. Your 2025 Male Athlete of the Year is Connor Knapp. Our Female Athlete of the Year is one of the most decorated athletes in West Ottawa history. The 2022 Gatorade Runner of the Year is a 2 time individual State Champion and was a member of the 2022 Cross Country State Championship team. An 8 time OK Red Champion in Track and Cross Country she has earned All State honors 10 times and All American honors on 3 occasions. She will lead the Panthers at the State meet next week as she looks to put a finish on her stellar career. She will continue her academic and athletic career at the University of Notre Dame. Your Female Athlete of the Year is Helen Sachs.