The spotlight shines on the next generation of athletic talent this week as the 32nd annual St. Paul Area Athena Awards ceremony prepares to honor outstanding female high school athletes. The event, a cornerstone for recognizing dedication and excellence in women's sports, will be held Wednesday at the Saint Paul RiverCentre.
Adding to the prestige of the evening, Minnesota Wild in-arena host Kirsten Krull will serve as emcee, while sports reporter Cassidy Hettesheimer will deliver the keynote address. The ceremony will also include a special tribute to the late Jessi Pierce and her family, underscoring the close-knit nature of the local sports community.
The Athena Awards celebrate more than just wins; they honor the hard work, leadership, and multifaceted achievements of student-athletes. This year's impressive list of honorees showcases a remarkable breadth of skill across numerous sports. From the wrestling mat to the soccer pitch, these athletes have dominated their fields.
Among the standouts is a four-time state champion wrestler who boasts a perfect 98-0 high school record and has competed on the U17 world stage. Another honoree excelled as an All-American lacrosse player, leading the state in scoring in 2025 while also earning All-Conference honors in basketball.
The awards highlight incredible versatility, with several athletes recognized for excellence in multiple disciplines. One recipient earned accolades in soccer, track and field, gymnastics, and basketball, while another shined in cross country, basketball, track and field, and softball. From trap shooting champions and state-winning dancers to record-holding track stars and volleyball standouts, this year's class embodies the true spirit of the well-rounded competitor.
As these young women are celebrated for their past achievements, their stories inspire a future where dedication and athleticism continue to break barriers. Their journeys remind us that greatness is built on a foundation of passion, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to the game—values we champion every day.