LSU Shreveport Recognizes Excellence in Athletics at 2025 Pilot Choice Awards

Shreveport, LA – Louisiana State University Shreveport celebrated the achievements of its student-athletes, coaches, and supporters on Monday evening during the annual Pilot Choice Awards banquet, held in the University Center Ballroom.

   The event serves as the Athletics Department's signature year-end celebration, honoring both team and individual accomplishments across LSUS's intercollegiate and club sports programs. The ceremony highlighted excellence in competition, leadership, service, and character — core values that define the Pilot student-athlete experience.

   Among the night's honors were the Faculty Athletic Representative (F.A.R.) Character Awards, presented to Jack Thomas and Angela Basto. Selected by Faculty Athletic Representative Dr. Aaron Adams, these awards recognize student-athletes who exemplify the well-rounded LSUS model by balancing academic achievement, athletic performance, campus involvement, and leadership.

   Jason Penry was named Pilot of the Year for his steadfast support of LSUS Athletics and its mission to positively transform the lives of student-athletes through consistent generosity and engagement.

   The Pilot Service Award was presented to the Men's Soccer team, acknowledging the program's commitment to community outreach and service in the Shreveport/Bossier area. The team's collective efforts have made a meaningful impact locally and enhanced the university's reputation. In recognition of outstanding personal character and contributions outside of competition, Draven Zeigler and Yuvia Vazquez were named Unsung Heroes of the Year. These awards honor student-athletes viewed positively across campus by faculty, staff, and peers for their dedication and integrity.

   The Breakthrough Athlete of the Year awards were presented to Kyle Mcleish and Erynn Williams, who demonstrated significant improvement and impact from the previous season through hard work and perseverance.

   Taj Anderson and Paula Gonzalez were named Newcomers of the Year, honored for making an immediate and consistent impact on their teams in their first year of competition.

   One of the most memorable accolades of the night was Moment of the Year, which was awarded to the LSUS Baseball team for completing a perfect 47-0 regular season. The team's historic run resonated beyond the athletic department, drawing recognition from the campus community and the greater Shreveport-Bossier region. The baseball team was also named Team of the Year, recognized for its dominance, resilience, and high-level performance throughout the season under the leadership of its student-athletes and coaching staff.

   Top individual honors went to Isaac Rohde and Juliana Anchondo, who were named Male and Female Athletes of the Year, respectively. Both athletes stood out in their sport and across the department, receiving or contending for conference and national recognition.

   The Career Achievement Awards were presented to Josh Gibson and Dawniella Torres, in acknowledgment of their sustained excellence and leadership over multiple seasons as members of the LSUS Athletics community.

   In club sports, Levi Thibodeaux and Savannah Bolden were recognized as Male and Female Club Sport Athletes of the Year for their outstanding accomplishments and contributions in competition beyond the NAIA-sanctioned programs.

   The Pilot Choice Awards continue to serve as a cornerstone event for LSUS Athletics, offering a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the year's accomplishments and celebrate the individuals and teams that contribute to the department's ongoing success.