Submitted by Experience Olympia & Beyond
The Olympia & Beyond Sports Commission, a division of Experience Olympia & Beyond, celebrated local athletes, coaches, and sports figures at the 2025 Thurston County Sports Awards on June 4 at South Puget Sound Community College, recognizing 40 individuals and two teams across seven categories for their dedication and impact in the Thurston County sports community.
Award Categories and Winners
Collegiate Sports Star of the Year – Men’s Sports:
Emmanuel Nicasio, The Evergreen State College. Nicasio led the Geoducks with six goals and four assists for 16 total points during the 2024 season and was selected First Team All-Cascade Collegiate Conference.
Collegiate Sports Star of the Year – Women’s Sports:
Alauna Carstens, The Evergreen State College. Carstens has earned multiple conference and national honors for her accomplishments in track and field and cross country. She continues to break her own school records and has earned NAIA All-American five times in five different races.
High School Sports Star of the Year – Boys’ Sports:
Andrew Coombs, Capital High School. At the 3A State Championships, Coombs set a state and meet record in the 200 Individual Medley, while also earning All-American automatic times in both his events. He qualified for State in every individual event—eight in total—and set Capital High School records in all of them.
High School Sports Star of the Year – Girls’ Sports:
Sadie McKune, North Thurston High School. McKune is a standout gymnast and scholar, earning multiple league and district titles, being named WIAA Athlete of the Week, and was selected for the prestigious Senior Nationals Gymnastics Team.
Sports Moment of the Year:
South Puget Sound Community College Men’s Basketball Team. SPSCC’s Men’s Basketball team made history this season with their first-ever NWAC Final Four appearance. The Clippers achieved a 25-7 overall record and a 12-2 record in conference play.
Thurston County Sports Contributor of the Year:
John Lane, The Evergreen State College. A lifelong coach and mentor, Lane has shaped Thurston County athletics for decades, most recently as assistant women’s wrestling coach at The Evergreen State College and guiding athletes to national honors.
Thurston County Sports Legend Award:
Bob Atwell. A true legend in Thurston County athletics, Atwell has dedicated over 40 years to coaching and mentoring at Timberline High School, leaving a legacy honored through the annual Atwell Classic track meet. More than just a coach, Atwell is a mentor, leader, and inspiration to generations of students and fellow coaches.
The evening highlighted the athletes’ dedication and the community support that fuels their accomplishments. For more information on the 2025 Thurston County Sports Awards and a full list of nominees, visit the Experience Olympia & Beyond website.
