HANNAH GREWE
PHOTOGRAPHER
AIDEN SHAPIRO
STAFF WRITER
4/13/2026
On Apr. 2, the Alma College Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) held the annual Scotty Awards, where Alma’s student-athletes are honored for their achievements throughout the school year.
Many student-athletes were honored and accepted awards. Awards like Athlete of the Year, Transfer of the Year, King/Queen/Team of the Sherman, and many others highlighted the evening.
The Iron Man award is given out to an athlete that has overcome a serious injury over the course of their career. Maddox Mozal (‘26), Offensive Tackle for Alma’s Football team won this year’s Iron Man award.
“I had to have elbow surgery due to extensive overuse breakdown, including cartilage damage, bone spurs, and excess calcification. This caused a decrease in range of motion and significant pain,” said Mozal.
Mozal became healthy enough to play his senior season and even joined Alma’s Men’s Lacrosse team this spring.
“It felt incredible to even be considered for this award. There were so many times when I felt like this was impossible and not an option. Not being able to work out or lift for months was something I never expected. Being limited to just using my arm weight for workouts was tough,” said Mozal.
While Mozal worked very hard on his own to get healthy, Alma’s Athletic Training staff was also crucial to his recovery.
“There were numerous days when I spent 2–3 hours getting treatment to get back and be ready to play again. They were always there and never gave me any negativity or doubt,” said Mozal.
The aptly titled Transfer of the Year award is given out to a transfer student-athlete that made their new home in Scotland, U.S.A. over the last year. Ava Hoffman (‘26), center attacking midfielder for Alma’s Women’s Soccer team, received the honor this year.
“It feels crazy to win transfer athlete of the year since I tore my ACL in the middle of conference play. However, it still feels really great to win,” said Hoffman
While Hoffman had some hardship late in the season, her team stood with her through thick and thin.
“I would just like to thank every single one of my teammates, as without them I wouldn’t be able to be successful anyway. Obviously, I would like to thank my coaches for the opportunities. I would also like to thank my trainer, Sammy, who helped me with injuries and pushed me,” said Hoffman.
Women’s Soccer was also awarded Most Improved Team at the ceremony.
King of the Sherm is an award given to an athlete who dedicates their time to the Sherman Strength and Conditioning Facility. This year’s King of the Sherm award was given to Adam Horrigan (‘27), offensive lineman for the Scot’s Football team.
“It feels great, truly an honor to be recognized in this way,” said Horrigan.
Football also received the award for Tartan Team of the Year.
The Almanian: News 
Leave a Reply