Seven Recognized as Strength & Conditioning Athletes of the Year – Minnesota State University

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Seven Minnesota State student-athletes were recognized this year as Strength & Conditioning Athlete of the Year for their sport through the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA). Winners were honored at various team events this spring with a certificate.
 
The Strength and Conditioning Athlete of the Year Award program recognizes those collegiate and high school athletes whose athletic accomplishments reflect their dedication to strength training and conditioning.
 
Awards have been given since 1998.
 

” These student-athletes are the best of the best in Strength & Conditioning,” said Minnesota State Head Strength & Conditioning Coach Andy Stocks. “They have shown tremendous effort and passion on a daily basis. Their work ethic and dedication to Strength & Conditioning are undeniable. Their progress and performance during their collegiate career have far exceeded expectations.”
 
2024-25 Minnesota State Strength & Conditioning Athlete of the Year Winners
Emily Russo (Basketball)

Abby Gronholz (Swimming & Diving)
Nathan Gribble (Football)
Lucy Weninger (Soccer)

Megan Narveson (Track & Field)
Spencer Wright (Baseball)
Emma Loveall (Volleyball)
 
Stocks on Russo

“Emily has had a tremendous impact on the Minnesota State basketball program and the Strength & Conditioning department. Her work ethic sets a great example for others and her leadership drives her team to success. Emily is a true role model.”
 
Stocks on Gronholz
“Abby has shown tremendous effort in all aspects of being a student-athlete. She uses her performance in the weight room to drive success in the pool. Her hard work has won multiple NSIC championships and NCAA All-American honors. She is also successful in the classroom, being named to the NSIC All-Academic Team. Her drive to excel will lead her to great success in the future.”
 
Stocks on Gribble

“Gribble is a stalwart for the Maverick football program and the Strength & Conditioning department. His grittiness, intensity, and love for lifting are second to none. Gribble’s blue collar work ethic will drive him to great success in the future.”
 
Lee on Narveson
“Megan has fully bought into strength training to further her success any time she runs. She has used the weight room as a place to thrive and ensure her body stays strong and durable so she can handle what comes with running longer distances. She pushes herself every training session no matter how she feels and consistently finds a way to improve! She is a joy to have around every training session and does a great job pushing her teammates to the next level! She helps foster a positive training environment for our entire weight room!”
 
Lee on Wright
“Spencer understands and uses the weight room to create the best competitive advantage he can for himself on the mound. He trains with the highest intent whenever he steps in the weight room. He comes in every day looking to better himself as the strongest and most powerful athlete he can be. He also holds his teammates to the highest standards in the weight room to create a hard-working culture for the entire program! He is a great leader to have in the room every day.”
 
Lee on Loveall
“Emma bought in fully to the training system here on campus and used it to her advantage. She always came in with a positive mindset and put her best foot forward when it came to training every day. She pushed herself to be the strongest and most powerful version of herself, which would then help translate to her performance on the Volleyball Court. She was a joy to have around in the weight room during her time on campus!”