Spanish Fort, AL - On Tuesday, April 29, 2025, the Spanish Fort Community Center buzzed with pride and celebration as the United States Sports University (USSU) hosted its first-ever Eagles Athletic Awards Ceremony—a historic evening honoring the trailblazing achievements of the university's inaugural athletic teams.
The event brought together student-athletes, coaches, university faculty and staff, and community supporters in a tribute to a year filled with firsts, setting the stage for a new era of collegiate athletics at USSU.
"Tonight, we celebrate not just victories and milestones—we celebrate a legacy in the making," said Shealynn Miller, Associate Director of Athletics, in her opening remarks. The night recognized the exceptional effort and leadership of the student-athletes who made history by being the first teams to wear "USSA" across their chests.
Award Highlights
Leading Eagle Award: Christian Aikens
Track and field standout Christian Aikens received the night's highest character honor for his embodiment of integrity, compassion, and leadership. Known for his humility and team-first mindset, Aikens represents what it means to be an Eagle on and off the field.
Sammy Eagle Spirit Award: Charlie Ruiz
Men's soccer defender Charlie Ruiz was recognized for his unwavering sportsmanship and respect for the game. A quiet leader and a positive force, Ruiz earned praise for uplifting his teammates and exemplifying the true spirit of USSU Athletics.
Female Iron Eagle Award: Hailey Vanbrimmer
Softball infielder Hailey Vanbrimmer demonstrated year-round dedication to strength and conditioning, leading with grit, focus, and perseverance while inspiring and motivating her teammates in the weight room.
Male Iron Eagle Award: Christian Aikens
Christian Aikens set the tone for a championship training culture in the weightroom through his dedication, leadership, and work ethic, motivating teammates to elevate their performance.
Wings of Service Award: USSA Softball Team
Honored for their community engagement, the softball team volunteered at the Turkey Trot, Miracle League, Admiral Shellfish Company, and led am 8U youth clinic—demonstrating their commitment to service.
Game of the Year: Baseball Walk-Off vs. Xavier – February 7, 2025
In one of the most thrilling moments of the season, USSU baseball stunned Xavier University of Louisiana with a 4–3 walk-off win. This contest was marked by high intensity, athletic excellence, and memorable plays. The team demonstrated teamwork, strategy, and perseverance under pressure.
Academic Cup: USSA Softball Team
With an impressive 3.71 team GPA, five President's List honorees, and fourteen on the Dean's List, the softball team set the standard for academic excellence.
Scholar-Athlete of the Year: Olivia Watkins
Maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA over 86 credit hours, Watkins earned the highest academic honor, recognizing her outstanding academic and athletic balance. She was also named a 2025 Junior Marshal
Freshman of the Year: Evan Jacob
Freshman catcher Evan Jacob made an immediate impact, hitting .429 with 5 home runs and 30 RBIs over 35 games, while excelling defensively and contributing to team culture—all while maintaining a 3.68 GPA.
Coach of the Year: Morgan Cinello
In her debut season, Coach Morgan Cinello was named Coach of the Year for her outstanding leadership, team success, and commitment to developing student-athletes on and off the field. In just one season, she built a culture of excellence, discipline, and support, earning widespread respect across the USSU community.
Female Athlete of the Year: Sydney Taylor
Infielder Sydney Taylor played a key role in USSA Softball's success, hitting .326 with 20 RBIs over 34 games and making impactful plays, including a walk-off win. She leads with sportsmanship, excels academically with a 3.94 GPA, and was named a 2025 Junior Marshal.
Male Athlete of the Year: Hayden Jones
Hayden Jones was a key contributor for the Eagles Baseball team, batting .350 with 5 home runs and 29 runs over 35 games. As a leadoff hitter and left fielder, he brought consistency and leadership, while excelling academically with a 3.78 GPA and being named a 2025 Junior Marshal.
As the evening concluded, the overarching message was clear: this was not just an award ceremony—it was a celebration of the first chapter of a growing legacy. "This is only the beginning," the crowd was reminded. And if this inaugural class is any indication, the future of USSU Athletics is destined to soar.
