By Cornhusker State Games
LINCOLN, Neb. – A 14-year-old who defied all odds and a volunteer with her own amount of accomplishments are among several outstanding Nebraska athletes earning recognition as 2025 Cornhusker State Games (CSG) Athletes of the Year.
In all, six athletes were chosen from among 7,745 total participants to be honored at the Nebraska Sports Council (NSC) awards banquet on Nov. 4 at the Grand Manse. Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is the Awards sponsor.
2025 honorees include: Wrestler Brylee Irsik, 12, Omaha; Hockey player Eastyn Munhall, 14, Omaha; Triathlon participant Hilary Catron, 48, Omaha; Fencer Brad Tucker, 38, Lincoln; Indoor Volleyball player DeAnn Korinek, 64, Lincoln; and BMX Freestyle & Racing participant Wade Uldrich, 55, Lincoln.
Irsik, a standout wrestler, set the Iron Man points record last year and continued her dominance in 2025 as a sixth grader. Competing in both her age group and the high school girls division, she earned six gold medals, one bronze, and was named Outstanding Wrestler for the second year in a row.
Munhall made an inspiring return to the ice after a near-fatal battle with West Nile virus and ataxia. Following nearly two weeks in the hospital and extensive rehabilitation to relearn how to walk and skate, he led his hockey team to a silver medal at the 2025 State Games—scoring two goals in his first game back. His journey is a powerful testament to perseverance and determination.
Catron has been a dedicated participant in the Cornhusker State Games for decades, competing in events such as Taekwondo, Karate, Cycling, Open Water Swimming and Triathlon. In 2025, she added to her impressive CSG resume with a strong showing in the triathlon, continuing a multi-year streak of podium finishes. As the longtime Taekwondo Sport Director, Catron has volunteered countless hours to ensure smooth, fair competitions and was honored as the 2024 Sport Director of the Year for her outstanding service and leadership.
Tucker is a highly accomplished fencer and a leader in the Lincoln fencing community. He claimed victories in all three fencing weapon events and also serves as the head coach of the Lincoln Fencing Club, where he builds community and mentors the next generation of fencers.
Korinek has been a dedicated participant in the Cornhusker State Games for 40 years, consistently medaling in Indoor Volleyball. In 2025, she added to her legacy by earning gold in both the Women’s C Division and COED C Division, showcasing her continued passion and excellence in the sport. In addition to being a participant, she also assist her husband in running the tournament and keeping it a running success.
Uldrich is a dedicated figure in the BMX community, consistently volunteering his time to support both freestyle and racing events in Lincoln. From helping in maintaining facilities to mentoring young riders, he plays a key role in developing the sport locally. In addition to his volunteer work, Uldrich found personal success at the 2025 State Games, earning a silver medal in BMX Racing and a bronze in BMX Freestyle.
NSC Officials reported that 82 counties were represented in 2025, with top five including Lancaster—2,248, Douglas—1,147, Sarpy—548, Lincoln—117, and Hall—115. Carter Wallen, just 2 years old from Unadilla, was the youngest participant. The oldest participant, 91-year-old Caroline Caauwe from Lincoln, took part in WalkLincoln-Indoor. Top five sports in participation were Hockey - 580, Track and Field - 540, Shooting Sports - 467, Volleyball - 460, and Basketball - 449. More statistics can be viewed HERE.
The 42nd annual Cornhusker State Games will be held July 9-19, 2026.
The Nebraska Sports Council, which conducts the Cornhusker State Games, Omaha and Lincoln Corporate Games, the Pumpkin Run, NetFest Volleyball and Pickleball, Heartland Havoc, the WellPower Movement, Nebraska Showdown, and Nebraska DiamondFest is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization with platinum partners including FMNE, Nebraska Orthopaedic Center, Pepsi-Cola of Lincoln, and Grand Island Tourism. Learn more at NebraskaSportsCouncil.com.