By: Ally Salzwedel
ATHERTON, CA -- Menlo College lit up the night with its annual Athletics Awards Banquet, celebrating an unforgettable first year in NCAA Division II. From a lively team dinner to striking photo ops at the iconic Menlo "M," the evening culminated in a powerful awards ceremony that recognized the heart, grit, and leadership of our incredible student-athletes. Representing the PacWest and MPSF with pride, the Oaks honored those who left it all on the field/court/mat, led with purpose, and continued a tradition of excellence. With every cheer and standing ovation, one thing was clear — the future is bright, and It's Oak Time!
Don Baikie Athletes of the Year: The Don Baike Male and Female Athletes of the Year Award is named in honor of a long-standing Menlo College Hall of Fame Director of Athletics; these awards are the most prestigious honor a Menlo athlete can earn. It is awarded to the outstanding male and female athletes for an academic year, who by their accomplishments in their sport have brought notoriety and success to their team and the intercollegiate athletic program. Here are our finalists:
Women
Kalila Shrive - Women's Wrestling
A sophomore from Tracy, CA, Kalila delivered yet another outstanding season, continuing to excel at the highest levels of collegiate and international wrestling. She opened the year up with a commanding performance at the Menlo Women's Open by capturing 1st place, earning tech falls in every single match, setting the tone for the rest of the year.
At the USMC Women's Nationals, Kalila competed in both the U20 and U23 divisions at 76kg, earning a 6th place finish in U20 and an impressive 2nd place finish in U23, solidifying her place among the top young wrestlers in the country. Her performance at Nationals earned her the opportunity to represent Team USA for the second consecutive year at the U23 Pan-American Championships in Queretaro, Mexico.
On the international stage, Kalila once again proved she belonged among the best, capturing a silver medal at the Pan-American Championships. Her dominance and consistency throughout the year were a testament to her technical skill, mental toughness, and elite competitive mindset. Kalila's season stands as a shining example of what it means to compete with passion, purpose, and pride—both for Menlo College and for Team USA.
Men
Landon Seaman - Men's Basketball
The senior wrapped up his Menlo career with a season to remember—one defined by dominance, consistency, and leadership. The 6'9" forward averaged an impressive 20 points and 7 rebounds per game, finishing second in the PacWest in scoring. But Seaman's impact stretched far beyond the stat sheet. With 34 steals, 22 blocks, and 63 assists, he proved to be one of the most well-rounded and versatile players in the conference. Throughout the season, He delivered in every way imaginable, recording seven double-doubles and consistently rising to the occasion in crucial moments. His Menlo journey ended on a high note with a dominant 30-point performance on March 1 against Vanguard—a true exclamation point on an exceptional career. Off the court, Landon's leadership was just as impactful. He was the heart and soul of the Oaks, a player who elevated everyone in his orbit. Now, as he looks ahead to the next chapter, Landon will continue his basketball journey and academic career at NCAA Division I Cal State Fullerton as a graduate student. His legacy at Menlo is etched in excellence, and his future remains just as bright.
Club Sport Athletes of the Year: The Club Sport Athlete of the Year Award is given to the most outstanding individual who has brought success to their club sport team and the intercollegiate athletic program. Our nominees are:
Jared Ambrosio - Weightlifting
a senior and three-time National qualifier, has been the heart and soul of the Menlo College Weightlifting program. His leadership this season was nothing short of extraordinary—not only did he compete at the highest level, but he also served as a coach and mentor throughout the year, acting as the glue that held the team together. Jared's unwavering commitment to excellence and growth was on full display as he delivered a standout performance on the national stage, hitting a personal record 107kg snatch, and pushing himself further with a 146kg PR Clean and Jerk. His total of 253kg earned him a top-16 finish, marking one of the most significant competition improvements of his career. Jared's impact reaches far beyond the platform; his selfless dedication, relentless work ethic, and belief in the success of his teammates have set a lasting example. This season's achievements simply would not have been possible without his unconditional commitment to the team's development and his own pursuit of greatness.
Bud Presley Coach of the Year Award: The Bud Presley Coach of the Year Award is presented to the Head Coach who, by way of success on the field of play, in the community, or in the classroom has made a major impact on the lives of their student athletes and the Menlo College Community.
Keith Lambert - Men's Soccer
The Head Men's Soccer Coach reached a historic milestone this season, notching his 100th career win with Menlo College in a 3-1 victory over San Francisco State—Menlo's first-ever NCAA Division II match. Since joining Menlo in 2013, Coach Lambert has been a transformational figure in the athletics department. He began his tenure leading the Women's Soccer team in the Cal Pac, where he tallied 39 wins and a conference championship, before transitioning to the Men's program in 2017. Under his leadership, the Oaks have flourished—earning a GSAC Tournament title in 2019, a regular-season GSAC Championship in 2023, and an appearance in the NAIA National Tournament, where Lambert was named GSAC Coach of the Year.
Now guiding the program into a new chapter at the NCAA Division II level, Coach Lambert continues to inspire excellence. His 100th win wasn't just a career milestone—it symbolized the dawn of a new era for Menlo Men's Soccer, one built on tactical brilliance, player development, and unwavering commitment. This season, Lambert led the Oaks to a 10-4-3 overall record, with an 8-1-2 Conference record, to tie for second place in the PacWest standings. The program also celebrated five All-Conference selections—cementing his legacy as one of the most successful and respected coaches in Menlo history.
Sports Performance Iron Oak Award: The Iron Oak award is named in honor of a Male and Female student-athlete that best embodied the messages and goals of the Sports performance department through hard work and commitment, in and out of season.
Women
Kanani Packer - Women's Volleyball
Serving as the heartbeat in sports performance sessions for our women's volleyball program — she is a player who not only pushes the needle but consistently raises the ground floor for everyone around her. She serves as the vital bridge between coach and team, ensuring communication flows with clarity, honesty, and unity. Kanani's leadership extends far beyond the court: her positive energy is felt across campus, where she's a standout personality known for her genuine involvement and care. Whether she's nurturing team culture, supporting a teammate, or dedicating herself to recovery and personal development, Kanani leads by example in every facet of her journey. Her commitment to excellence and community makes her truly indispensable.
Men
Donald Holliday - Men's Soccer
Embodying the spirit of the Iron Oak Award, Donald is fully "bought in."
Simply put, Donny loves to train. He's constantly seeking ways to improve and takes great pride in the process. He's always asking questions and curious about the "why" behind everything we do — a mindset that fuels his development. He approaches every lift with 100% effort and attention to detail, especially when it comes to tempo and load. He consistently looks for ways to optimize his diet, mobility, and speed, actively applying feedback from the sports performance staff. These habits are the hallmarks of someone destined for success — not just on the field, but in life. Since arriving, Donny has shown remarkable improvement in his explosiveness, quickness, fitness, and power — all because he dove into sports performance feet first and never looked back.
Sports Medicine Perseverance Award: The Sports Medicine Perseverance Award is granted to a MALE OR FEMALE student-athlete that best embodies the message and goals of the Sports Medicine department through tenacity, dedication, and a self-driven attitude to achieve success in sport after injury. Here are our finalists.
Frida Schmidt - Women's Basketball
Frida came to Menlo College with aspirations to finish her hoop dreams at Haynes Prim. After having injury-filled seasons at both her previous schools, Frida hoped to continue to stay healthy and help the Women's Basketball team both on and off the court. In the final practice before the national tournament, Frida felt her knee buckle while coming down from a rebound. Frida immediately knew that she had torn her ACL again, for the 3rd time in her basketball career. Unlike most, Frida did not give up on herself, she immediately got to work, becoming a mainstay in the athletic training room. She never settled on good enough and always wanted more to help her recover quickly and effectively. She rehabbed daily, and did not falter while facing any of the obstacles thrown her way. She continued to trust the course, rehabbing this entire past season. Through her determination, she was fully cleared to return to basketball in March and we're looking forward to her return to Haynes Prim next season! Frida embodied the words of the late Kobe Bryant, "The minute you give up, is the moment you let someone else win", and Frida was determined to not let anything keep her from the game she loves.
Athletic Department Service Award: The Menlo College Athletic Department Service Award is presented each year to a student whose contributions to the athletics department by way of sports information, game operations, or marketing and promotions are immeasurable. Here are the finalists:
Lara Edeker - Game Operations / Softball
Lara Edeker has made outstanding contributions as a student worker in the Menlo Athletics Game Operations Department over the past two years now. While competing as a full-time student-athlete on the Softball team, Lara exemplifies everything we look for in a teammate on the Game Operations staff as well: she is reliable, driven, and incredibly coachable. Time and again, she has gone above and beyond what is expected. Whether arriving two hours before game time to assist with event setup or staying long after the final whistle to help with teardown, Lara demonstrates a tireless commitment to the success of our programs. Her selflessness and dedication are unmatched. What truly distinguishes Lara, is her ability to seamlessly wear many hats. She has excelled in a wide array of roles, including live stream producer, camera operator, scoreboard operator, statistics board operator, social media engagement including live tweeting and cutting highlights, and managing ticket gate operations. Her adaptability is extraordinary—no matter the assignment, Lara takes it on with precision, professionalism, and an unwaveringly positive attitude.
Glen E. Dorst Award: Originating in 1957 and sponsored by alumnus Glen E. Dorst, who took an active interest in the development of youth in athletics, the Glen E. Dorst Award is presented each year to a Menlo College Senior Male or Female student-athlete who most personifies the standards of sportsmanship in each phase of his/her life. Here are the finalists:
Paige Harmann - Women's Volleyball
A staple of the Women's Volleyball program since arriving from Peoria, Arizona in 2020, Paige has left a mark both on and off the court. She finishes her career as Menlo's all-time leader in assists with an astounding 1,818, while also sitting seventh in career service aces with 100. This season, she finished in the top 10 in the PacWest for both assists per set and service aces per set. But Paige's impact reaches far beyond statistics. She's a constant, positive presence on campus—whether she's working, competing, supporting clubs and classmates, or simply sharing her trademark smile on the quad. As a Resident Assistant, she has embraced challenges and setbacks with humility, resilience, and a genuine commitment to growth. Academically, she excelled with multiple Dean's List honors, NAIA Daktronics and GSAC Scholar-Athlete recognitions, and induction into the esteemed Beta Gamma Sigma Society. In 2022, she received the Junior class Richard F. O'Brien Award, and in 2023, her integrity and leadership were recognized with the GSAC Cliff Hamlow Champions of Character Award. If there is anyone who embodies the very best of Menlo College—sportsmanship, heart, leadership, and humility—it is Paige Harmann.
F. Philler Curtis Award: The F. Philler Curtis award is presented each year to a Senior Female student-athlete who by scholarship, leadership, and athletic ability has made an outstanding contribution to campus life at Menlo College.
Aliya Hunter - Women's Basketball
Since beginning her collegiate career in 2021, Aliya has been the very definition of a dedicated Oak—leading with heart, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. A guard from Fife, Washington, Aliya has been a true culture builder within our women's basketball program. This year in the PacWest Conference, "Leelee" averaged 4.5 points per game, recorded 10 steals, and pulled down 2.0 rebounds per game, consistently bringing energy and toughness to every contest. As a senior captain, she helped shape the team's identity, fostering a culture of resilience, accountability, and pride, leading to a 9-game win streak. Beyond basketball, Aliya's impact on campus has been just as impressive, serving as the Commuter Representative for the Student Government Association, a vital member of the Game Operations staff, and the President of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, where she has advocated for her peers and strengthened the connection between student-athletes and the larger Menlo community. Her leadership doesn't stop at Menlo—Aliya also dedicates her time to coaching and mentoring young athletes through local Team Elite basketball leagues, inspiring the next generation through her passion and example. Menlo College is a better place because of Aliya Hunter!
Señor Carlos Lopez Award: The Senor Carlos Lopez Award is presented each year to a Senior Male student-athlete who by scholarship, leadership, and athletic ability has made an outstanding contribution to campus life at Menlo College.
Justin Flannery - Baseball
A true example of what it means to be a student-athlete, Justin Flannery has consistently demonstrated excellence on the field, in the classroom, and across campus. A senior leader for the Menlo Baseball team, Justin led the Oaks in nearly every major offensive category this season. Starting all 50 games, he amassed 62 hits in 180 at-bats for a stellar .344 batting average. His offensive production included 13 doubles, a triple, and 6 home runs, totaling 36 RBIs, 42 runs scored, 11 stolen bases, and 20 walks—cementing his status as one of the most dynamic and reliable players in the lineup. Off the field, Justin is just as impressive. He serves as a member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and is the President of the Accounting Club, where he leads with integrity and initiative. Academically, Justin excels and continues to raise the bar, earning recognition for his consistent academic achievement. His dedication and leadership extended into the professional world as well, having interned at Moss Adams as an Audit Intern—an experience that resulted in a full-time job offer due to his outstanding work ethic and leadership skills. Justin Flannery exemplifies the best of Menlo College: discipline, leadership, and a drive for excellence in all pursuits.
Don W. Baer Award: The Don W. Baer award originated in 1954 in memory of Don W. Baer, a former manager for the football team. This honor is awarded each year to either a Senior Male or Female student-athlete who shows the greatest qualities of all-around leadership.
Anthea Weiland - Women's Tennis
Anthea Weiland, a senior tennis standout from Düsseldorf, Germany, has exemplified excellence in every arena during her time at Menlo College. A three-year student-athlete, Anthea balanced the demands of collegiate tennis with academic achievement at the highest level—graduating as the Class of 2025 Valedictorian. Beyond the court, she has embraced leadership and service through her roles as a Game Operations student-worker, a member of the Student Advisory Committee at SolPods, and as Vice President of the Business & Environment Club. Her global mindset was evident through her participation in Menlo's prestigious Dubai exchange program, while her passion for tennis extended internationally, coaching youth athletes back home in Germany. A proud member of both the Beta Gamma Sigma and Alpha Kai honor societies, Anthea is the embodiment of a scholar-athlete: driven, insightful, and committed to making a difference.
Fall Sport Athletes of the Year:
Women
Hannah Torres - Women's Volleyball
Hannah Torres, a standout transfer from Merced Community College, made an immediate impact in her first season with the Oaks after arriving in 2023. A dominant presence at the net and a key offensive leader, Torres quickly emerged as one of the top performers in the PacWest Conference. She finished the season with 335 kills, ranking 6th in the PacWest, and appeared in 97 sets. Her all-around production earned her 7th in total points in the conference with 365.5 points, averaging 3.68 points per set. She also added 47 digs and 37 total blocks, showcasing her well-rounded game. Torres etched her name into the PacWest record books with a record-setting 21-kill performance in a three-set match against the University of Nebraska at Kearney—the most ever recorded in such a match in conference history. Her outstanding play was recognized with a selection to the All-PacWest Second Team, a well-deserved honor reflecting her consistency and impact. Off the court, Torres was also honored nationally with the prestigious AVCA Student-Athlete Demonstrator Scholarship, highlighting her leadership, character, and commitment to the sport.With a powerful presence on the court and a driven mindset off it, Hannah Torres leaves behind a legacy of excellence, resilience, and record-breaking performances in her time with the Oaks.
Men
David Stuber - Men's Soccer
A 5'11" junior center back from Switzerland, David served as team captain and was the backbone of the Oaks' defensive unit throughout the season. Starting every match and totaling 1,494 minutes, David's presence and leadership on the back line were instrumental in Menlo's defensive success. Under his guidance, the team posted a goals-against average of 1 across 17 matches, and an exceptional 0.7 Goals allowed in 11 PacWest games—the lowest in the conference during league play. David's influence didn't end there; his ability to contribute offensively was just as notable, tallying four goals—including two clutch game-winners in back-to-back matches against Concordia-Irvine and Jessup—and adding one assist. His aerial dominance, disciplined tackling, and composed distribution out of the back made him a complete and commanding presence on the field. For his outstanding performance, David was rightfully honored as Menlo's only First Team All-PacWest selection, a reflection of both his elite talent and his invaluable leadership. David Stuber has set the standard for excellence, consistency, and composure!
Winter Sport Athletes of the Year:
Women
Jordyn Rosette - Women's Basketball
A 6'1" graduate student forward from Elk Grove, California, Jordyn returned for her final season and left a powerful mark on the PacWest Conference. Averaging 13 points and 7 rebounds per game while shooting 48% from the field, Jordyn proved to be a force on both ends of the court. Her all-around excellence was reflected in her 57 steals, 32 blocks, and 32 assists, placing her in the top 10 of six major statistical categories across the PacWest. Her versatility and consistency were further highlighted by six double-doubles. Rosette celebrated surpassing 1,000 career points earlier this season with a 24-point season-high against Jessup University. Her presence in the paint, leadership in the locker room, and unwavering commitment to excellence made Jordyn Rosette a cornerstone of the program and an irreplaceable part of Menlo's success this season.
Men
Ledger Petracek - Men's Wrestling
A senior from Elk Grove, CA. Ledger came from North Idaho College in 2023. In his final collegiate campaign, ledger delivered a dominant performance on the mat, finishing with a 17-5 record. Of those 17 victories, 14 came by bonus points—highlighted by 11 pins, 2 technical falls, and a major decision—showcasing his explosive offense and ability to end matches decisively. He also amassed 30 takedowns on the year, proving to be a relentless force on his feet. Petracek's postseason run was just as impressive. He captured the 174-pound title at the NCWA West Coast Conference Championship, punching his ticket to the national tournament. Riding that momentum into the NCWA National Championship, he continued his dominant streak with bonus point victories that propelled him into the national finals. In the final match of his collegiate career, he delivered a standout performance, defeating his opponent 8-1 to claim the 174-pound national title. With his championship win, Ledger not only capped off a stellar season but also secured his place in Menlo College wrestling history as a national champion.
Spring Sport Athletes of the Year:
Women
Holly Obermuller - Women's Golf
One of the best golfers to walk the halls of Menlo College, Holly Obermuller. Holly has been a force to be reckoned with for the Oaks since the first day she stepped on campus as a Freshman. Immediately inserted into the starting five, Holly has been a key piece to the Menlo Women's golf team's success in recent years. Holly had a record breaking senior year; having not only been the first player in program history to win back to back tournaments, but also etching her name in the Menlo record books forever. Holly is tied for second with most tournament wins in program history and also holds the lowest 36 holes tournament score in program history at 9 under par. Holly finished off her career as the 76th ranked D2 Women's golfer in the nation. Holly has set the standard for what it means to be a Menlo golfer.
Men
Mustafa Selçuk Uyar - Men's Volleyball
A senior transfer from Antalya, Turkey, Mustafa made an immediate impact in his first and only season with the Oaks. Bringing international experience and a high-level skillset to the court, Uyar quickly established himself as one of the top offensive threats in the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation (MPSF). Over the course of the season, he played in 90 sets and finished 8th in the MPSF in total kills, while ranking 5th in the conference in kills per set, averaging an impressive 3.60 kills per set. His consistent scoring and aggressive presence at the net made him a go-to option for the Oaks' offense all year long. Mustafa's senior campaign was marked by big moments, high-level performances, and a fearless approach to competition. His ability to rise to the occasion against top-ranked teams solidified his role as a leader on the court -and a vital piece of Menlo's inaugural season in one of the toughest volleyball conferences in the country.
Collis Steere Academic Excellence Awards: The Collis Steere Academic Excellence Awards are given to the male and female senior student athletes with the highest cumulative grade point average. Awards are given to male and female 4-year student athletes and transfer student-athletes. Here are our four winners:
4-Year Senior:
Paul Breuer - Men's Golf
Paige Harmann - Women's Volleyball
Transfer Senior:
Justin Flannery - Baseball
Anthea Weiland - Women's Tennis
