In a remarkable display of athletic excellence, Michael Adedokun and Makenna Webster have been honored as Ohio State University’s Male and Female Athletes of the Year for the 2024–25 academic and athletic season. This prestigious recognition not only underscores their outstanding performances in their respective sports but also highlights their significant contributions to the university’s rich athletic tradition.
Michael Adedokun’s journey to becoming Ohio State’s Male Athlete of the Year is a testament to his exceptional talent and determination. In 2024, Adedokun made history by becoming the first player in Ohio State men’s soccer history to win the MAC Hermann Trophy, an accolade often referred to as the “Heisman of soccer.” His performance that season was nothing short of spectacular, leading the Big Ten with 11 goals and 11 assists. Under his leadership, the Buckeyes achieved a remarkable 16–2–4 record, clinching both the Big Ten regular-season and tournament titles. Their success propelled them to the NCAA Tournament’s College Cup for only the second time in the program’s history, where they narrowly lost to Marshall in the national semifinals.thelantern.com+4elevenwarriors.com+4bvmsports.com+4
Adedokun’s impact extended beyond the field. His leadership and sportsmanship were instrumental in elevating the men’s soccer program to new heights. His ability to inspire and lead by example made him a standout figure in Ohio State athletics during the 2024–25 season.
Makenna Webster’s achievement as Ohio State’s Female Athlete of the Year is equally impressive, reflecting her versatility and dedication to excellence in two distinct sports. Webster’s athletic prowess was evident as she earned unanimous All-Big Ten and second-team All-American honors in field hockey. She ranked among the top eight nationally with 16 goals and 42 total points, leading the Buckeyes to a 14–5 season—their best in 14 years.elevenwarriors.com+1elevenwarriors.com+1elevenwarriors.com+1elevenwarriors.com+1
Following her success in field hockey, Webster seamlessly transitioned to ice hockey, where she continued to excel. She played a pivotal role in leading the women’s ice hockey team to its fourth consecutive national championship game appearance, amassing 35 points (12 goals, 23 assists) in just 30 games. Her dual-sport success is a rare and remarkable feat, showcasing her exceptional athleticism and commitment to her teams.bvmsports.comelevenwarriors.com+1elevenwarriors.com+1
Beyond her athletic achievements, Webster’s academic excellence further distinguishes her. She was honored with the Big Ten Medal of Honor, an award recognizing the top male and female student-athletes in the conference for their combined excellence in athletics and academics. Her ability to balance the demands of two high-level sports while maintaining academic success is a testament to her discipline and work ethic.elevenwarriors.com+4247sports.com+4ohiostatebuckeyes.com+4
Both Adedokun and Webster’s selections as Ohio State’s Athletes of the Year highlight the university’s commitment to fostering excellence in all aspects of student-athlete development. Their achievements not only bring pride to Ohio State but also set a benchmark for future generations of Buckeyes. As they move forward in their athletic careers, their legacies at Ohio State will undoubtedly inspire and influence aspiring athletes for years to come
