Valdosta State University honored football senior Eric Watts and women's basketball junior Erin Whalen as the Herb and Linda Reinhard Male and Female Student-Athletes of the Year. This recognition, which underscores the Reinhards' lasting impact on VSU athletics, was revealed during the annual awards banquet. Criteria for the awards include being a junior, senior, or graduate student, with a minimum 3.0 GPA and at least one year enrolled at VSU. Alongside these awards, the department acknowledged exceptional community service contributions, logging over 2,500 hours this past year.

By the Numbers
  • Watts rushed 467 yards with 9 touchdowns, averaging 42.5 yards per game.
  • Whalen averaged 14.0 points per game and ranked fourth in the Gulf South Conference with 11 double-doubles.
State of Play
  • Watts led the football team to its 12th Gulf South Conference title.
  • Whalen was the only player to start all 29 games for the women's basketball team this season.
What's Next

With the awards established, VSU aims to further promote academic and athletic excellence among its student-athletes while potentially expanding community service initiatives. The recognition may also encourage more students to contribute actively to both the athletic and academic spheres.

Bottom Line

Recognizing standout student-athletes not only honors their hard work but reinforces the values of excellence and community engagement at VSU. This commitment serves as an inspiration for current and future student-athletes to strive for greatness both on the field and in their studies.