Celebrate Washington’s Biggest Night in Sports: The 91st Annual Sports Star of the Year Awards

The 91st Annual Sports Star of the Year Awards presented by Microsoft returns this year, continuing a near‑century‑long tradition of honoring the athletes, teams, and stories that define Washington’s sports landscape. Since 1935, this iconic event has celebrated the moments that unite fans, inspire communities, and showcase excellence across every corner of the state.

A Legacy Nearly 100 Years Strong

Now in its 91st year, Sports Star of the Year is more than an awards show—it’s a reflection of Washington’s rich sports history. Each class of honorees adds a new chapter to a legacy filled with unforgettable performances, community impact, and historic milestones. This year’s ceremony highlights the athletes and storytellers who captivated fans and shaped the 2025 season.

Honoring the Best in Washington Sports

The event will celebrate winners across multiple categories, including:

Sports Star of the Year — Women’s Sports

Jordyn Bugg, Reign FC | Standout Defender
A breakout star in her first full professional season, Bugg delivered lockdown defense and came through with pivotal, game‑deciding goals.

Yvonne Ejim, Gonzaga Basketball | Bulldogs All‑Time Great
Ejim redefined greatness in her final season, setting Gonzaga scoring and rebounding records while delivering one of the most dominant collegiate seasons in program history.

Emily Lundgren, WSU Swimming | Cougars’ First All‑American
The junior breaststroker posted the best season in Washington State history, leading the Cougars to an unbeaten year and earning multiple All‑American honors.

Amanda & Hana Moll, UW Track & Field, Pole Vault | National Record Breakers
The sophomore twins from Olympia took turns rewriting NCAA record books, with Amanda dominating indoors and Hana reigning outdoors in a historic season.

Caroline Penner, Seattle U Soccer | High‑Scoring All‑American
Penner doubled her goal output from the previous season, finishing her career with a dominant senior campaign and leading Seattle U to a perfect regular season.

Gabby Williams, Seattle Storm | All‑Star Defense
Already known as one of the WNBA’s elite defenders, Williams elevated her game in 2025, earning her first All‑Star selection while posting career‑best offensive numbers.

Sports Star of the Year — Men’s Sports

Richie Aman, UW Soccer | Hermann Trophy Finalist
A key force on Washington’s national championship team, Aman earned national recognition for both his playmaking ability and academic excellence.

Nathan Green, UW Track & Field | Two‑Time National Champion
Green reclaimed the national title in the 1500 meters while helping solidify the Huskies as one of the nation’s premier track programs.

Cristian Roldan, Sounders FC | Star Midfielder
In his best professional season to date, Roldan shifted roles and became the heartbeat of Sounders FC, earning MLS Best XI honors.

Jaxon Smith‑Njigba, Seahawks | NFL’s Leading Receiver
With the spotlight firmly on him, Smith‑Njigba delivered a historic season, leading all NFL receivers in yards and earning Offensive Player of the Year honors.

Bryan Woo, Mariners | American League All‑Star
Woo emerged as the Mariners’ ace, earning All‑Star honors and finishing among the league’s top pitchers before an injury cut his season short.

Sports Story of the Year

Mariners Postseason Magic While Raleigh Sets Records
A historic division run, record‑setting power, and unforgettable playoff moments energized the fan base and brought T‑Mobile Park to life.

Seahawks to Super Bowl LX With Winningest Season
After defying preseason expectations, the Seahawks captured the NFC West, delivered dramatic playoff victories, and reached the Super Bowl for the first time in over a decade.

UW Soccer Captures National Attention
An emotional, unforgettable season saw the Husky women rally through heartbreak and the men complete a stunning championship run on the road.

Sounders FC First to Fill Trophy Case With Continental Conquest
Sounders FC made history by capturing every major North American soccer trophy, cementing their place among the continent’s elite.

Seattle Torrent Takes the Ice
In just months, the Seattle Torrent ignited unprecedented excitement for professional women’s hockey, setting new attendance benchmarks and reshaping the sports landscape.

The 91st Annual Sports Star of the Year Awards take place on Friday, March 13, 2026, at the Seattle Convention Center – Summit Building, from approximately 5:00–10:00 p.m.

Guests will enjoy a night filled with inspiring stories, athlete appearances, award presentations, and the opportunity to celebrate alongside Washington’s sports community.

Reserve Your Seat

Tables and individual tickets are available now at seattlesports.org

Be part of one of Washington’s most storied traditions—and celebrate the athletes and moments that made the 2025 season unforgettable.