LAS VEGAS, Nev. — The College of Southern Nevada Department of Athletics gathered to celebrate a year defined by achievement, growth, and community impact at its annual Student-Athlete Awards Banquet, honoring the individuals who continue to shape the Coyote standard both in competition and in the classroom.
The evening served as a reflection of the department's continued momentum, recognizing student-athletes, coaches, and staff whose dedication has elevated CSN Athletics across all fronts—from academic success and competitive excellence to service and leadership throughout the community.
That commitment to excellence was evident from the outset, as the night opened with recognition of the department's top academic performers. Women's soccer standout Kassandra Gonzalez and baseball's Bryce McKnight were named Scholar-Athletes of the Year, representing the highest level of achievement in the classroom while competing at a high level for the Coyotes.
As the program moved into its individual honors, the Unsung Hero Award highlighted those whose impact is often felt behind the scenes but is essential to the success of their teams. Softball's Justice Lavin and volleyball's Tia Alofipo were recognized on the women's side, joined by a strong group of nominees that included Leah Mitchell, Monica Lopez-Torres, Laura Leguidleguid, and Sienna Maisano. On the men's side, cross country's Dominic Tsao earned the honor, standing out among nominees Alejandro Marquez, Alex Rhynes, Imanol Cabrera, and Maximus Romero.
Tsao's name would be called again later in the evening, this time as the recipient of the Individual Service Award. His recognition, alongside nominee Kanyanat Sukhata, underscored the department's emphasis on service and giving back—values that continue to define the Coyote student-athlete experience.
Energy and pride were on full display during the presentation of the Coyote Spirit Awards, which recognize those who embody the identity and enthusiasm of CSN Athletics. Softball's Athena Tonga'onevai earned the women's honor among a group that included Mya Harper, Yuliana Luna, Savannah Foschetti, and Elvia Lozano. Baseball's Jacob Nelson claimed the men's award, representing a group of nominees that featured Yousufu Siaway, Gerardo Osorio, and Christian Ware.
The future of CSN Athletics was equally evident in the Rookie of the Year category, where first-year student-athletes made immediate and lasting impacts. Softball's Chloe Tepraseuth earned the women's honor, rising from a competitive group that included Qendryn Rodman, Trista Mabry, Kate Oliva, and Cheyenne Dillingham. On the men's side, baseball's Christopher Wrench was recognized following a standout debut season, selected from nominees Gerald Patterson, Jayden Jackson, and Julian Garcia.
Beyond individual accolades, the evening also celebrated collective impact, as the CSN Softball program was honored with the Team Community Service Award for its commitment to making a difference off the field.
The night built toward its most prestigious student-athlete recognition, the Athlete of the Year awards. Women's basketball standout Saroiya "Cici" Ajomale earned the top honor on the women's side, leading a group of finalists that included Chloe Tepraseuth and Cheyenne Dillingham. On the men's side, baseball's Evan Festa was named Athlete of the Year, rising among nominees Jayden Jackson and Ryan Raad following an exceptional season of performance and leadership.
The banquet also turned its attention to the individuals working behind the scenes who play a vital role in the success of CSN Athletics. Cheer head coach Monah Doyle was recognized with the Coyote Spirit Award for Athletic Staff, honoring her tireless efforts to elevate school spirit and represent the Coyotes across campus and throughout the community.
In addition, Michael Winter of Media Services received the Coyote Spirit Award for Faculty/Staff, recognized for his impact in enhancing the student-athlete experience through media, branding, and storytelling. He was selected from a group of nominees that included Stephanie Little, Manny Tristan, Dr. Amy McAuley, and Janelle Tinhan.
The evening concluded with one of the department's most meaningful honors, the Dexter Irvin Coyote Coach of the Year Award. Named in tribute to a figure who embodied leadership and the Coyote Spirit, the award recognizes a coach who reflects those same values.
This year's recipient, Ashley Rogers, continues to build one of the premier programs in the region as head coach of the CSN Softball team. In her eighth season, Rogers has guided the Lady Coyotes to continued success, including a Region 1 championship appearance last season and a position atop the conference standings this year.
As the night came to a close, the message was clear—CSN Athletics continues to thrive because of the people who define it. From the classroom to competition, and from campus to community, the Coyotes are building a culture centered on excellence, accountability, and pride.
The annual banquet not only celebrated the accomplishments of the past year, but also reinforced the bright future ahead for CSN Athletics.
