Hudson Valley Community College 2024–2025 Year-End Athletics Awards
CONTACT: Julia Quinlan, j.quinlan@hvcc.edu, (518) 629-7863 or (518) 530-7376
FOR RELEASE: Immediate, Monday, June 16, 2025
As the 2024–2025 academic year comes to a close, Hudson Valley Community College proudly honors the outstanding student-athletes, coaches, and community members who have made a lasting impact on the Vikings Athletics program. These annual awards recognize excellence in leadership, sportsmanship, service, and performance—on and off the field.
President's Award
Jonathan Reynolds (Golf) & Moira Collins (Softball)
This prestigious honor is presented to student-athletes whose hard work, determination, hustle, and attitude have made valuable contributions to their team, the athletic department, and the college community. Jonathan and Moira exemplified all these traits throughout the year, setting high standards in competition and character. "Jonathan had an outstanding career at Hudson Valley, playing a key role in leading the Vikings to back-to-back National Tournament appearances. He capped off his tenure with an impressive 11th-place individual finish at Nationals, leading the team and solidifying his position as one of the program's top performers." says Hudson Valley Athletic Director Justin Hoyt. "Moira built on a strong freshman year with an even more impressive sophomore campaign, helping lead the Vikings to their first National Tournament appearance in a decade. Along the way, she earned numerous individual accolades, including All-American honors and became the first Viking in program history to receive the Capital District Sports Woman of the Year Award." he added.
Otto Guenther Memorial Award
Tyler Drexel (Bowling) & Athena Seebald (Track & Field/Cross Country)
Awarded to one male and one female student-athlete who demonstrate the best combination of academic excellence and athletic achievement. "Tyler played a pivotal role in leading the men's bowling program to a second-place overall finish at the National Championship—the top performance among all non-scholarship schools. His outstanding season earned him All-American honors, and he was also recognized as the SUNY Scholar Athlete of the Year." says Hoyt. Tyler and Athena not only led their teams but also excelled in the classroom, balancing rigorous coursework with exceptional athletic performance. Athletic Director Justin Hoyt added, "Athena made an immediate impact in her freshman season, helping lead both the cross country and track and field programs to Nationals. With her talent and drive, she's poised to play a key role next season and will be one of the top returners in the Region."
Lester Higbee Award
Jocelyn Richter (Tennis)
Presented to the most outstanding female athlete, this year's award goes to Jocelyn Richter, whose dominance on the tennis court and leadership within the program elevated the team and inspired those around her. Hoyt added, "Jocelyn was a dominant force on the women's tennis team, dropping only one match all season—which came in the National Championship finals. She delivered the match of the tournament at Nationals with a thrilling victory to secure her spot in the finals. We're hopeful to have her back next season to build on her incredible success."
Thomas Cahill Award
Jameson Balich (Baseball)
Awarded to the most outstanding male athlete, Jameson Balich's stellar season—highlighted by multiple Player of the Year honors—earned him this top recognition. His on-field performance helped propel the Vikings baseball team to one of their best seasons in recent memory. "Jameson was the breakout star of the season—a true diamond in the rough—who helped propel the baseball team to a Conference Championship and a spot in the Regional Final Four. One of the top hitters in both the Region and the Nation, his presence at the plate will be crucial next season as the team sets its sights on another championship run." says Hoyt.
Paul F. Bishop Coach of the Year Award
Joshua Parrow (Baseball)
Coach Parrow is recognized for his exceptional leadership, professionalism, and commitment to both his players and the mission of the athletic department. Under his guidance, the baseball program reached new heights this season. Athletic Director Justin Hoyt stated, "Coach Parrow could earn this honor every year—not just for what he accomplishes on the field, but more importantly, for the incredible work he and his team do off the field. Their year-round commitment to community service speaks volumes about the culture he's built. On the field, their consistent success has turned the program into a championship contender. Coach Parrow treats this like a full-time job, and how he balances it all—on top of his actual full-time job and personal life—is nothing short of remarkable. We're incredibly fortunate to have him on staff, and with his leadership, the sky is truly the limit for the program."
Willie A. Hammett Award for Excellence in Student Service
Julie Warren (Health Services)
This award honors a member of the campus community whose tireless efforts and dedication have directly benefited HVCC's student-athletes. Julie Warren's compassionate and consistent support has been vital to the wellbeing and success of Viking athletes. "Julie may work behind the scenes, but her contributions are absolutely vital to the success of our athletic programs. She and her staff help process and care for over 400 student-athletes each year, ensuring they are healthy and ready for competition. Julie is an invaluable member of our team, and we are truly grateful for all she does to support our department." says AD Justin Hoyt.
Dr. Andrew J. Matonak Character Award
Cameron Harbaugh (Football)
Cameron is recognized for his unwavering commitment to his team and the College, consistently displaying character, integrity, and the Viking spirit both on and off the field. AD Justin Hoyt spoke on Cam's major contributions to his team and the department, "Cam could have easily transferred after his freshman campaign, but he chose to honor his commitment to the coaching staff and his teammates. That decision speaks volumes about his character. He embodies everything you want in a high-character student-athlete—loyalty, perseverance, and leadership. Through hard work and dedication, Cam not only stayed the course but thrived. He delivered one of the most prolific seasons for a quarterback in Vikings history and will go down as one of the all-time greats to wear the uniform."
John L. Buono Award for Citizenship
Vincent Giordano (Photographer)
Presented to a member of the Vikings community who has shown dedicated service and commitment to student-athletes, Vincent Giordano has gone above and beyond to capture and celebrate the moments that define Viking athletics. "Vincent has played a key role in elevating our sports information department through the high-quality photos and videos he produces for our social media and athletic programs. From team headshots to in-game action shots, his work helps showcase and promote all of our teams. He consistently goes above and beyond—often attending games on nights and weekends—and we're truly grateful for his dedication and commitment to our department." says Hoyt.
Phil Brown Assistant Coach of the Year Award
Michael O'Keefe (Softball)
Recognized for his vital contributions to the softball program, Michael O'Keefe's passion, guidance, and behind-the-scenes dedication played a major role in the team's success this year. "Mike was Coach Tedisco's right-hand man, and the entire softball staff is truly second to none. He managed many of the team's administrative duties while consistently being present at practices and games. His contributions were essential to the program's success, and he will be deeply missed next season." adds Hoyt.