CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – The University of Illinois celebrated its standout student-athletes Monday night at the 2026 Oskees, held at State Farm Center. The annual event honors first-year letter jacket recipients, graduating athletes, and those excelling on and off the field.
McKenna Schaefbauer and Kenta Miyoshi, stars of the women’s and men’s tennis teams, received the prestigious Big Ten Medal of Honor, awarded to the top male and female graduates demonstrating both academic and athletic excellence. Schaefbauer, a political science major, capped her Illinois career with a top-30 national ranking and multiple All-Big Ten honors. Miyoshi, a Japanese native, was named 2025 Big Ten Player of the Year and has amassed 97 career singles wins.
The night also recognized athletes making a difference in their communities. Tali Joelson (women’s gymnastics) and TJ Griffin (football) received the Big Ten Jackie Robinson Community & Impact Award, highlighting courage, teamwork, and integrity. Meanwhile, Kylan Boswell and Lety Vasconcelos took home Fighting Illini Spirit Awards for their dedication and effort.
Several teams were honored for academic excellence, including women’s golf (3.90 GPA) and men’s gymnastics (3.73 GPA). Individual scholars across all class levels were also recognized, from standout sophomores to top graduate students.
The Oskees concluded with finalists announced for Dike Eddleman Athlete of the Year, Freshman of the Year, and Newcomer of the Year, with winners to be revealed after the spring season.
The 2026 Oskees celebrated the university’s commitment to cultivating athletes who excel in competition, academics, and community leadership.