The Evergreen State College celebrated the achievements of its student-athletes at the 2026 Athletics Banquet, held on May 28. Key awards presented included the Dig Deep Award, Male Athlete of the Year, Female Athlete of the Year, and the Career Achievement Award. Bright Brubaker received the Dig Deep Award for her outstanding contributions in volleyball, while Horacio Godinez was named Male Athlete of the Year for becoming Evergreen's first All-American in wrestling. Izabelle Trefts earned the title of Female Athlete of the Year for her third NAIA National Championship in race walking, and Shannon Workinger was honored with the Career Achievement Award for her historic performance in women's wrestling.

By the Numbers
  • Bright Brubaker played in all 24 matches, achieving 33 kills, 35 assists, and 27 blocks.
  • Horacio Godinez recorded a 37-7 season record, setting school records for wins and winning percentage.
  • Izabelle Trefts set a national collegiate record in the 3,000-meter race walk with a time of 13:11.95.
  • Shannon Workinger achieved a 14-1 overall record in her wrestling season.
State of Play
  • The event recognized both seasoned athletes and first-year participants, emphasizing inclusivity in the athletics program.
  • The banquet highlighted the academic and athletic successes of the Geoducks, showcasing leadership beyond sports.
What's Next

As Evergreen State College moves forward, it is likely to build on the momentum from this banquet, fostering an environment that encourages both athletic excellence and academic success. Future recruitments may focus on attracting athletes with a blend of leadership and academic prowess.

Bottom Line

The 2026 Athletics Banquet underscored the importance of student-athletes' holistic development, combining academic achievement with sports performance. Evergreen's recognition of diverse talents marks a commitment to supporting well-rounded athletes who excel on and off the field.