LA GRANDE, Ore. - Hunter Sparks was named this year's Ad Rutschman Men's Small College Athlete of the Year on Monday, as announced by the Oregon Sports Awards.
The award is one of many that Sparks has collected this season, having been named NAIA Outstanding Wrestler, CCC Wrestler of the Year, All-American, and Academic All-American. In his final season, Sparks delivered a historic performance, highlighted by clutch moments in the national tournament. After a dramatic triple-overtime comeback in the semifinals, where he defeated the reigning champion, Sparks secured a 6-5 victory in the final with a takedown in the last 20 seconds. He became Eastern's first national champion in 55 years and only the third in EOU history.
One of the most decorated athletes to compete in the program, Sparks recently announced earlier this month that he will be returning as an assistant coach for the upcoming 2024-25 season.
The Oregon Sports Awards celebrate the achievements of athletes, coaches, and teams from across the state's sports landscape, including both collegiate and professional levels. Sparks and the rest of this year's honorees will be recognized at the Night of Champions ceremony scheduled for October 29 at the Patricia Reser Center for the Performing Arts in Beaverton. The event honors both past and present athletes who have significantly contributed to the state's sports legacy. Click here to learn more about the Night of Champions.