As the end of the year approaches, we are proud to celebrate the accomplishments of our teams and student-athletes who have a significant impact on their sport and their community. The annual Club Sports Awards are peer-nominated and staff selected awards that are presented during the Michigan Difference Student Leadership Award event.
This year’s recipients include:
- Outstanding Club Sport – Women’s Club Water Polo
- Janet K. Wells Outstanding Leader Award – Ashely Goodrich, Michigan Running Club
- Club Athletes of the Year – Mia Barr, Women’s Club water Polo & Scarlet Howser, Club Gymnastics
- Most Improved Club Sport – Michigan Climbing Team
You can learn more about the recipients and their accomplishments below. Thank you to all of them for the impact they make on our program!
Outstanding Club Sport Award
The Outstanding Club Sports Award recognizes student-athletes and Club leaders who have demonstrated excellence in athletics and sportsmanship. This award takes into account team achievements, team visibility, and interactions with members of the campus community.
The University of Michigan Women’s Club Water Polo team celebrated their second consecutive National Championship win in 2024, securing victory in an intense double overtime sudden victory match.. The team fosters a supportive community, prioritizing mutual support and community engagement, actively participates in volunteer events, such as Girls and Women in Sports Day and Diag Olympics, and works to keep team costs low through fundraising. The dedicated student-athletes have maintained an undefeated record in tournaments to date this year, consistently striving for improvement both in and out of the pool. Congratulations to Women’s Water Polo, this year’s Most Outstanding Club Sport.
Janet K. Wells Outstanding Leadership Award
The Janet K. Wells Outstanding Leadership Award is our highest individual award given to a club officer who has established themselves as a leading administrator and who is committed to their club’s development and improvement.
This year’s recipient is Ashley Goodrich, Michigan Running Club. During her four years of active involvement in MRun, Ashley Goodrich has taken on significant leadership roles and has greatly improved multiple aspects of each position she held. She led the club in raising over $25,000 for Area 20 Special Olympics, organizing large volunteer events at weekly Special Olympics basketball practices, and coordinating a 24-hour running relay across the entire state of Michigan. As Treasurer last year, she implemented numerous processes that kept the team organized and on top of its finances. Her teammate said, “As this year’s co-president, she provides a welcoming and accessible space for athletes of all ability levels to run and compete. Ashley continues to keep the club moving in the right direction and takes it upon herself to constantly seek areas for improvement.”
Club Athletes of the Year
Mia Barr, a veteran of the Women’s Club Water Polo team, has not only been a driving force in the water but also a beacon of support and encouragement. Her knack for breaking down complex techniques, answering questions with patience, and offering insightful pointers has made her a cherished mentor among her teammates. With her approachable demeanor and unwavering kindness, she has helped to foster a united team atmosphere. Her outstanding efforts did not go unnoticed in the 2024 season, as she clinched the prestigious CWPA Club National All-Tournament MVP, secured a spot on the First Team, and was honored as Player of the Year.
Scarlet Howser is a standout member of the Club Gymnastics team, contributing significantly to the team’s national titles for the level 8 team in 2023 and 2024. This year, she advanced to level 9, taking on the challenge of mastering new, difficult skills. Her persistence in improving her routines and overcoming fears showcases her dedication to the sport, despite facing significant injuries early this season, Scarlet’s determination remains unwavering. She continues to attend practices, focus on her recovery, and excel in competition, highlighted by a remarkable third-place finish on the uneven bars at the Bowling Green meet after limited practice time.
Besides her athletic prowess, Scarlet is a vital leader within the team. As a former president and current officer, she plays a crucial role in organizing events, such as the upcoming home meet, and fosters community spirit by integrating new members. Her ability to balance these responsibilities while maintaining high performance levels is commendable. Scarlet’s accomplishments, resilience in the face of adversity, and commitment to her teammates solidify her as a well deserving Athlete of the Year. Her journey is marked by continuous achievement, and she serves as an inspiring figure within the club.
Most Improved Club Sport Award
The Most Improved Club Sport Award is nominated and selected by the Club Sport advisors and it recognizes the hard work and dedication during a year by a Club’s leadership to improve their club’s operations or standing. This year’s recipient of the Most Improved Club Sport is the Michigan Climbing Team. This year’s officers of the Climbing Team have been ideal communicators, diligent administrators, and organized planners, all while maintaining a fun environment and positive attitude. They are passionate about the growth of their organization’s members and expanding their reputation in the Climbing community. They have increased the amount of climbers participating in competitions, reached a much larger social media audience, and made climbing more accessible for new climbers. Congratulations to the Climbing Team, the Most Improved Club Sport.