Celebrating Excellence: 2025 Beré Memorial and Tiemersma Athletic Awards at Calvin University
Calvin University Celebrates Excellence with 2025 Beré Memorial and Tiemersma Athletic Awards
Calvin University has proudly announced the recipients of its prestigious 2025 Beré Memorial and Tiemersma Athletic Awards, recognizing the remarkable achievements of its student-athletes. Uchenna Egekeze and Luke Witvliet have been named co-recipients of the Beré Memorial Award, which honors the top senior male student-athlete, while Sydney Sonday has earned the Tiemersma Award, designated for the top senior female student-athlete.
These awards are not just about athletic prowess; they celebrate exceptional academic performance, character, and leadership qualities. The Beré Award has a rich history, having been presented annually since 1951, while the Tiemersma Award has been honoring outstanding female athletes since 1972.
By the Numbers
Uchenna Egekeze has etched his name in Calvin’s history books, holding the career record for steals at 221 and ranking ninth in points scored with an impressive 1,581. Luke Witvliet, a model of academic excellence, achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA and earned All-MIAA honors in both cross country and track and field. Meanwhile, Sydney Sonday has made waves in the swimming pool, earning NCAA III All-America honors nine times throughout her illustrious career.
Yes, But
While these award recipients exemplify outstanding athletic and academic performances, there are varying opinions regarding the selection criteria. Some argue that the focus should also encompass broader student engagement, suggesting that the awards could further reflect the holistic development of student-athletes.
State of Play
Uchenna Egekeze concluded his collegiate basketball career on a high note, leading his team to the NCAA III Tournament Elite Eight. Sydney Sonday played a pivotal role in helping Calvin achieve its best national team finish since 2018, while Luke Witvliet is poised to embark on a journey into medical school, illustrating a seamless blend of academics and athletics.
What’s Next
As these exceptional student-athletes prepare to graduate, they are set to transition into promising professional pursuits. Egekeze plans to continue his education in graduate studies, Sonday aims for a career in pickleball, and Witvliet is ready to tackle the challenges of medical school. Their achievements set a high standard for future candidates vying for these esteemed awards.
Bottom Line
The 2025 Beré Memorial and Tiemersma Awards shine a spotlight on the outstanding accomplishments of Calvin University’s student-athletes. These awards honor individuals whose excellence transcends the realm of sports, encompassing academic success and community involvement, and inspiring future generations to strive for greatness both on and off the field.
