LINCOLN, Neb. (Sept. 19, 2024) – An 80 year-old four-time cancer survivor and a 17 year-old who bowled a perfect game, are among several outstanding Nebraska athletes earning recognition as 2024 Cornhusker State Games (CSG) Athletes of the Year.
In all, six athletes were chosen from among 8,176 total participants to be honored at the Nebraska Sports Council (NSC) awards banquet on Nov. 5 at the Graduate Lincoln Hotel. Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is the Awards sponsor.
2024 honorees include: Swimmer Cady Spence, 12, Omaha; Bowler Brennan Heck, 17, Papillion; Tennis player Wendy Thomas, 52, Lincoln; multi-sport competitor Jarred Russell, 25, Lincoln; Swimmer Dorinda Beatty, 80, Fremont; and Archer Tom Saunders, 82, Omaha.
“Our 2024 Athletes of the Year represent the best of Nebraska in every way,” NSC President Dave Mlnarik said. “It’s a diverse group of people and sports, which reflects the broad appeal of the Cornhusker State Games.”
Beatty, a four-time cancer survivor, continues to excel in swimming, holding the Master’s State Record in the Women’s Long Course 50 breast and 50 free. She won gold in both events at the Cornhusker State Games. She swims 2,300 yards daily and also volunteers to teach local children.
Heck won gold in the adult-youth doubles category at the State Games and is Nebraska’s reigning high school individual state champion. He bowled a perfect 300 at the Games, followed by a 298. He also volunteers with Unified Sports and serves as a student manager for Ralston High School Volleyball.
Spence, competing for the Aquatic Club of Elkhorn, earned the youth female award with gold medals in all seven of her individual races. She also joined a relay team on short notice which highlighted her team spirit and dedication.
Russell won multiple 2024 CSG medals across various events. He earned a bronze in Adult Indoor Volleyball and in Track and Field, won gold in both the 800 meter and 1500 meter runs. Additionally, he placed 6th overall and took gold in his age group in the 5k Road Race. Russell also competed in Taekwondo.
Thomas, the 2024 CSG Gold Medalist in Women’s 3.5 tennis singles, had previously won seven silver medals, making her gold medal a significant achievement. Known for her exceptional sportsmanship, Thomas went above and beyond during her matches, even arranging ice packs for other players. As a dedicated advocate for tennis, she is also known for starting and captaining teams for beginners and helping new players fall in love with the sport.
Saunders, with decades of involvement in the sport of archery, is known for his contributions to youth programs, participation in shoots for fun, and valuing camaraderie over competition. At the CSG Archery meet, Saunders was honored alongside the youngest participant as the tournament’s “bosses.” Tom’s genuine support and humility make him a remarkable role model for young archers.
NSC Officials reported that 76 counties were represented in 2024, with top five including Lancaster—2,826, Douglas—1,529, Sarpy—539, Lincoln—116, and Cass—106. Carter Wallen, just 13 months old from Unadilla, was the youngest participant. The oldest participant, 91-year-old Caroline Caauwe from Lincoln, took part in WalkLincoln-Indoor. Top five sports in participation were Shooting Sports—633, Track and Field—617, Volleyball—507, Ice Hockey and Basketball tied at 458. More statistics can be viewed HERE.
The 41st annual Cornhusker State Games will be held July 10-20, 2025.
The Nebraska Sports Council, which conducts the Cornhusker State Games, Omaha and Lincoln Corporate Games, the Pumpkin Run, NetFest Volleyball and Pickleball, Heartland Havoc, the WellPower Movement, Nebraska Showdown, and Nebraska DiamondFest is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization with platinum partners including Farmers Mutual of Nebraska, Nebraska Orthopaedic Center, Pepsi-Cola of Lincoln, and the Nebraska Medical Association. Learn more at NebraskaSportsCouncil.com.