2026 Male Eagle Athlete of the Year: Sawyer O'Grady

Grand Rapids Christian High School is proud to recognize Sawyer O'Grady as the 2026 Male Eagle Athlete of the Year.

Over the past four years, Sawyer has established himself as one of the most accomplished student-athletes in Grand Rapids Christian history. Competing in both golf and swimming, he has achieved extraordinary success while helping elevate two Eagle programs to new heights.

On the golf course, Sawyer was a cornerstone of one of the most successful eras in school history. During his four-year varsity career, the Eagles captured two Division 2 State Championships, finished as state runner-up twice, won four consecutive regional championships, and earned multiple conference championships.

Individually, Sawyer's accomplishments are equally impressive. He was the 2026 Individual Regional Champion, the 2024 Conference Champion, a two-time First Team All-State selection, and a two-time All-State Honorable Mention honoree. By the conclusion of his career, he tied the school record as the winningest golfer in Grand Rapids Christian history, contributing to 71 team victories and 38 additional top-five finishes.

Yet Sawyer's athletic excellence was not limited to golf.

In the pool, he was a four-year varsity swimmer and a six-time All-State performer. He helped lead relay teams to multiple All-State finishes, including membership on the 2025 State Champion 200 Freestyle Relay team. His versatility and commitment allowed him to compete at a high level in two demanding sports while serving as a leader among his teammates.

What makes Sawyer's accomplishments even more meaningful is the consistency with which he pursued them. He approached every practice, competition, and season with discipline, humility, and a team-first mentality. Whether competing on the golf course or in the pool, he represented Grand Rapids Christian with excellence and integrity.

Next year, Sawyer will continue his golf career at the University of Findlay, where he will undoubtedly continue the tradition of hard work and leadership that defined his time as an Eagle.

Sawyer's career is a testament to what can happen when talent is matched with dedication, perseverance, and character. We are grateful for the impact he has made on our athletic program and school community.

Congratulations, Sawyer, on being named the 2026 Male Eagle Athlete of the Year.

2026 Female Eagle Athlete of the Year: Lilah Poel

Grand Rapids Christian High School is proud to recognize Lilah Poel as the 2026 Female Eagle Athlete of the Year.

Lilah's high school athletic career is remarkable not only for its excellence, but also for its breadth. A four-sport athlete, she earned an incredible 16 varsity letters while competing in cross country, basketball, soccer, and track & field. Her commitment to her teams, coaches, and teammates exemplifies what it means to be an Eagle.

In cross country, Lilah established herself as one of the premier runners in school history. A four-time All-Conference, All-Region, and All-State athlete, she achieved the rare distinction of earning All-State honors all four years of her high school career. During her junior and senior seasons, she helped lead the Eagles to top-four finishes at the state meet, including a third-place finish this past fall.

On the basketball court, Lilah was a four-year varsity player and senior captain. She earned All-Conference honors while also receiving some of the state's highest individual recognitions, including the BCAM Outstanding Senior Student Athlete Award, BCAM's Best (All-State), and Academic All-State honors.

Her leadership continued onto the soccer field, where she was a four-year varsity player and senior captain. This season she earned All-Conference, All-District, All-Region, and Academic All-State honors while helping lead the Eagles throughout a successful campaign.

While her accomplishments are impressive, Lilah's impact extends far beyond statistics and awards. She has consistently represented Grand Rapids Christian with humility, determination, sportsmanship, and a commitment to excellence. She has been a leader in every program she has been part of and a role model for younger athletes who have watched her compete with grace and integrity.

Lilah's athletic career reflects the very best of Grand Rapids Christian Athletics. She has pursued excellence while remaining grounded in faith, community, and service to others. We are grateful for the example she has set and the legacy she leaves behind.

Congratulations, Lilah, on being named the 2026 Female Eagle Athlete of the Year.