Ava Perry was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the field and court. Her favorite thing about high school sports is the friendships that she has made while playing basketball and soccer. Ava loved having the opportunity to help out the younger girls’ basketball program. She is involved in Student Council, SADD, FFA, Beta Club, and has been part of 4-H for ten years at the Lawrence County Fair. Ava is also class president, helps in an elementary classroom, interned for the athletic department, participated in the IHSAA leadership conference, and volunteered for the Jug Rox Make a Difference Day. To Ava, agriculture is a way of life. Agriculture is more than providing products and food to the world. It teaches respect, responsibility, work ethic, leadership and so much more. These are skills that are useful throughout your whole life. After graduating high school, she plans on attending college to get a degree in animal science.
Carter Marschke was nominated as Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the track. Carter loves being with his team and embracing the opportunity to take on a leadership role in high school sports. He also has leadership roles outside of sports, such as being a Blue Crew leader and leading the project to re-stain the Nature Center deck at school. In addition to these activities, Carter is involved in the National Honor Society, cross country, track, recycling, and digital media for his school, and community outreach and the food pantry for his church. Carter has had the opportunity to learn a lot about agriculture through his job with Alan Baird. He has loved learning about Alan’s history in agriculture as it has helped Carter channel his interests and build a future. Carter plans to attend Purdue University for a major in agribusiness and has been working hard to earn scholarships to help cover tuition. He is passionate about pursuing a career in agriculture.
Noah Walker was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the course and track. He participates in cross country, track, and soccer. Noah’s favorite thing about high school sports is representing his school and community as well as making friends outside of competition. Outside of sports, Noah participates in student council, Key Club, 4-H, his church youth group, and leadership academy, and is a freshman orientation mentor. To Noah, agriculture represents community, culture, and tradition. He has observed the impact agriculture has had on his community and central Indiana, as well as on a global scale. After high school, Noah plans to attend a four-year university to study secondary education or social studies education while continuing as a cross-country and track athlete. Noah would like to be a secondary social studies teacher and coach sports and interscholastic activities at the middle and high school levels.
Hayden Steele was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court. The thing she loves most about high school sports is how they are constantly pushing her to be better. Whether that is being a better person, friend, or dancer, the coaches and the sport help her grow. Hayden loves this about her team because it translates into her other passions such as showing pigs and cattle and being an FFA officer. She is involved in the class council, the dance team, and FFA. When she is not dancing, Hayden volunteers at all gleaner events in her county and runs many charity events through her officer position in her FFA chapter. She is also heavily involved in 4-H, where she helps with their cattle association. Agriculture is everything to Hayden. It is the food that she eats, the clothes she wears, and the labor she puts forth in her life. Hayden would like to go to Purdue to either get a degree in elementary education or veterinary science.
Elizabeth Brunswick was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the course and court. The thing she loves most about high school sports is developing real bonds with her teammates and competing with community support. Elizabeth participates in basketball, cross country, National Honor Society, FFA, 4-H, livestock judging, and travel basketball. She also volunteers in community and church activities. Elizabeth has been involved in agriculture most of her life. She has learned about the hard work and time it takes and it has made her realize agriculture is the foundation of the world. Elizabeth is in her freshman year so she would like to continue playing sports and showing animals throughout high school and hopefully after. After high school, she would like to attend Purdue University to pursue a veterinary medicine degree and hopes to run her own clinic one day, while also growing a show pig business with her brothers.
Korbin Mastin was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field. His favorite things about high school sports are being part of a team and pushing himself and his team to improve and reach their goals. Korbin participates in soccer, FFA, FCA, 4-H, and community activities, including the fair. To Korbin, agriculture means life. He and his family use their land and resources to provide for themselves and others. After high school, Korbin plans to attend college for a degree related to agriculture. He would like to be an agronomist, working in the ag industry to continue doing what his family has been doing for years: taking care of and utilizing their farmland.
Brayden Rice was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field and mat. What he loves most about high school sports are the life lessons he learns and the bonds he creates with his teammates. Brayden competes in football, wrestling, and track. He also participates in 4-H, aiding a classroom and helping coach a club of younger wrestlers. He is also involved in a track camp for younger kids and Special Olympics. Agriculture means a lot to Brayden, and he has learned many lessons while working on his family farm. Brayden would like to continue his sports career in college and go to Purdue to pursue an engineering degree once he graduates high school.
Tatum Hunt was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the field and court. The thing she loves most about high school sports is her teammates and how unified her teams are. To her, it feels like a family. Tatum is involved in both travel and school softball, volleyball, Athletic Ambassadors, SALT, DECA, National Art and Honors Society. She also participates in Buddy Ball with special needs youth. Agriculture to Tatum is not just important but is a way of life. Her grandmother’s side of the family are multi-generational farmers in southeast Indiana. Although she is undecided on what college to attend, Tatum would like to pursue a degree in physical therapy.
Jackson Cain was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field. The thing he loves most about high school sports is the community aspect as well as the opportunity to help lead others to become better in the sport. Jackson is involved in baseball and football, where he holds the position of captain for both teams. He also serves as a leader for a few school clubs. To Jackson, agriculture is a big factor in his life. He is incredibly thankful to all of the men and women who work hard in the agricultural field to help provide for their fellow Americans. Jackson plans to attend the United States Air Force Academy and fly jets upon graduation.
Jay Herbert was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field and course. What he enjoys most about high school sports is being part of a team, having fun with his teammates, and learning from his coaches. Jay has played golf for four years and soccer for one year. He participates in FFA and National Honor Society and is also involved in his schoolwork-based learning program, through which he has worked at Wright Implement over the past year. Jay has been a member of 4-H for 10 years and is involved in Junior Leaders, who help with the annual Stock the Trailer food drive. He is active in his church and its youth group where he volunteers as a counselor for the church youth day camp each summer and has participated in several mission trips. Jay understands the hard work and responsibilities of agriculture thanks to his experience raising goats on his farm and showcasing them in 4-H. Receiving the Hoosier Homestead Sesquicentennial Award for his family farm has made him appreciate the dedication of the generations before him. Jay plans to attend Purdue University or Vincennes University and pursue a bachelor’s degree in agribusiness or agronomy.
Kiersten Haynes was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court and field. What she loves most about high school sports is being able to make friends not only from her school, but from other schools as well. Kiersten is involved in volleyball, track, National Honors Society, Interact, and FFA. Outside of school and sports, she participates in VOICE, 4-H, and junior leaders. Kiersten has been involved in many different activities, such as sports, clubs, and other organizations. However, the one thing that has had the most significant impact on her has been the agricultural industry. She has been showing livestock since she could walk and grew up on a cattle farm. Agriculture has designed her as a person. Showing livestock has taught her to be responsible and manage her time well. The rule in her house is that animals eat before they do. Kiersten wishes everyone had the opportunity to grow up in agriculture because she genuinely believes agriculture has made her the person she is today. Although undecided on which college she would like to attend, Kiersten would like to study agribusiness.
Katie McCashland was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court and field. The things she loves most about high school sports are the relationships she has been able to build with her teammates. They are friendships she will cherish forever. Katie is involved in volleyball, basketball, and is a member of the track & field team. She is also involved in Student Council, National Honor Society, FFA, Unified Sports, Patriot Singers, UC World Travelers, and FCA. She is also getting ready to start her 10th year of 4-H where she shows dairy goats, swine, and participates in the photography, arts & crafts, and sewing construction projects. Katie has been involved in a variety of community activities throughout her high school career. Some of the most memorable activities being youth sports camps, Family Fun Nights and the School Carnival at her local elementary school, helping the local Pack 40 Boy Scout clean up the local state park, distributing food boxes to the residents of Union County through Gleaners’ Mobile Food Bank, and most recently being able to help stock and set up a sensory room at Liberty Elementary School. To Katie, agriculture means family. She is the 5th generation to live on her family farm and believes it is really something special being part of a multi-generational farming family. It connects her to the land, ancestors, and the cycle of life. Katie is currently undecided on a college, but she would like to be a physical therapist. She also plans to study kinesiology before going to PT school.
Savanah Lipinski was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court. What she loves most about high school sports is making memories with her team. She has truly enjoyed the relationships she has made with past and present teammates. Savanah has been a part of the varsity basketball team for 4 years. She is involved in National Honors Society, Spanish Honors Society, student council, 4-H, and the science fair. She is also attending the highly competitive Kokomo CEO program. Savanah has completed over 150 volunteer hours in her community as well as completed a FAA commercial UAS/drone course. She is currently finishing her private pilot’s license and is expected to complete her license in 2024 as a Ray Aviation Scholar (EAA). Living in a farm community and growing up on a small hobby farm/pumpkin patch and agritourism location, Savanah has a great opportunity to have a small taste of farm life. This has given her a great appreciation for farming and a small sense of what it takes to be in agriculture. After high school, she plans to attend Purdue University or Indiana State University and major in Aviation. She hopes to build a career in aviation, as a professional pilot in Indiana.
Juliana Radke was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the field. What she loves most about high school sports is their competitiveness. Even her teammates who don’t want to play in college or are only there for their friends still come out every day with passion and gusto and simply try their best. Juliana is involved in soccer, the National Honors Society, and Student Ambassadors, and is a freshman retreat leader. She also participates as a Friends of Charlestown State Park volunteer, CCSA Soccer Camp, PHS Soccer Camp, and NHS tutoring/activities. To Juliana, agriculture means hard work and reaping the benefits of that hard work. It means building with the land, not on the land. She plans to major in business management and minor in entrepreneurship in hopes of starting her own business as a plant supplier to local businesses. She says she owes all her success to God and tries to give him glory through all her actions.
Ali Evans was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court. What she loves most about high school sports is being a part of a team, and accepting challenges or roles that will benefit her team. She enjoys finding ways to grow as a player and as a person through the lessons she has learned on the many teams she has played on. She loves the hometown pride and community support that a team gets when they represent a small rural school. Ali competes in volleyball for her high school team and she is involved in FFA competing on her livestock and soil judging teams. She is also active in her BPA (Business Professionals of America) club as well. Ali is a member of the Junior Department Club (JDC) which is a community service-based club for high school girls. She is also active in 4-H in beef cattle and swine as well as Jr. Leaders clubs. Agriculture is the center of Ali’s life. She lives on a corn and soybean farm in west central Indiana. Ali has spent her life growing up and enjoying the involvement in her family’s farm where she gets to work alongside most of her family. She has developed a respect for agriculture that many people don’t understand. Ali plans to attend Purdue University and major in agri-business then come back home to her family’s farm. After college, she would love to own and operate her own cattle herd.
Shelby Luper was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the mat and course. What she loves most about high school sports is creating bonds at tournaments. All of her friends have been young ladies that she has competed against. When they see each other at tournaments, they all make an effort to support, chat, and encourage one another. Shelby competes in wrestling, golf, and softball as well as participates in FFA, FCA, Coach Kids, Key Club, Friends for Life, and Friends of Rachel Club. Through Key Club, she has served in her community more than she did in the past. She has been able to donate clothes to families in need, along with cleaning up her local park. Agriculture to Shelby is a living breathing community of dedicated people. All people in agriculture have similar goals, foundations, and values. It is a place where she can make connections and ask questions; she always has a place there. After high school, Shelby plans to attend Manchester University to continue her wrestling career along with her studies. She plans to study psychology and religious culture to become a mental health therapist.
Braden Moore was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the court and course. One of the things that he likes most about high school sports is the constant competitive atmosphere. The thrill of victory pushes him to succeed. Knowing that his teammates are just as willing to support each other as much as he does proves to cultivate a culture of success. Time and time again, his love for high school sports continues to grow. Braden competes in golf, tennis, and basketball. He participates in the National Honors Society, Business Professionals of America, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. When Braden is not in school or playing sports he spends time volunteering with his community. Some projects he has helped with include the Free Laundry Project where he assisted local community members who do their laundry for free for two hours on two Thursdays a month, the food pantry where he has helped pass out canned goods to the community and participated in food drives, and a local service project where his tennis team volunteers every year to complete yard cleanup for various shut-ins in his community. Agriculture has shown Braden the multitude of pathways to be successful in life. From a young age, his grandfather had shown him how hard work and a relentless effort to achieve his goals can pay off. Looking up to the farmers of his family, he immediately began to recognize how there was so much more to the agriculture business than just planting and harvesting seeds. From farming fields to selling steel, his grandfather has inspired him to take one step closer to reaching his goal of becoming a successful businessman. In the fall of 2025, Braden will be playing for the golf team and attending classes at Purdue Fort Wayne where he will major in business. After graduating high school with over 40 hours of college credits, he hopes to graduate early and begin taking classes for his MBA. With this background, his hopes are to begin his own business as well as acquire his real-estate license so that he can follow in his grandfather’s entrepreneurial footsteps.
Lacy Schilmiller was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the range. What she loves most about high school sports is how they bring excitement and challenging possibilities to life for all who participate. Lacy believes all school sports provide a mental break from schoolwork and she can put forth the best of her abilities. Lacy participates a lot in NJROTC (Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps) and she is in the running for future Commander of her school’s NJROTC. She volunteers at her school in various ways such as doing the presentation of colors (national anthem) at the football and basketball games, teachers assistant, participating on the Precision Rifle Team, helping with annual fundraisers such as the pancake breakfast, color run, and more. Lacy is deeply involved with her local 4-H, where she is the media producer, and has written and received two 4-H grants for her club. She enjoys helping the fair board to set up parking and animal barns, running the “My Little Farm,” guiding younger kids with animals, and being the go-to help for a lot of people. She also shows meat pen chickens, pigs, and goats and helps the mini-4H’ers with their animals. Lacy is also very involved with her local church. She regularly attends the youth choir, serves at mass, helps with the High-School Hangout youth group, and attends camps and conventions. Lacy feels as though she has made an impact on her community by selling Kennebec potato bags and donating the money she made to a different organization each year. Agriculture means a lot to Lacy. It has taught her over the years that everything starts small like a seed, and as it grows or changes, adaptations and resources flourish. If she had to say one word that describes the agriculture grown in her, it is initiative. She has learned that in agriculture she needs to make her own decisions and be resourceful. In the future, Lacy has some possible college choices, but she does know that she would like to go into the Air Force ROTC or the Army ROTC to continue her passion for rifle and then become an officer in the medical field. Her overall goal is to work for the VA hospital so she can give back to those who gave their all and hear their stories of the good times with their friends and family.
Kenzlei Mathews was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the mat and field. While it’s difficult for her to pick one thing she loves most about high school sports, Kenzlei expressed that pride is what she loves most. There is true pride in the eyes of her parents, her community, young athletes, and even the bus driver. Representing her school and community with her friends is an honor and an emotional, rewarding feeling. Looking up and seeing the stands filled with people from her school and community is something that she cannot describe. Being able to set the stage for young athletes to dream of playing, in the same uniforms, striving for the same dreams or more, is a feeling of a whirlwind of emotions. Kenzlei competes in Western Boone High School wrestling, softball, and soccer on the varsity teams, and plays travel softball with the Indiana Shockwaves. She also participates in FFA, 4-H, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and the National Junior Honor Society. In her spare time, she volunteers as a mentor to local softball teams as well as other activities. Kenzlei currently works for a local horse farm, teaches, softball lessons, and, is a junior umpire for young athletes to help her parents pay for her fees and equipment. Agriculture to Kenzlei means a way of life. She said this because her father has grown up working for farmers and taught each of his kids to earn their first dollars by volunteering for local farmers. She did not know at the time just how much it was teaching her. Learning to work from sun up until sundown, walking fields, carrying heavy rocks to the cart, and just learning to work as a team to cover more ground. She applies each of the qualities taught to her through farming to everyday life. Kenzlei dreams of playing softball in college, and although undecided, she hopes to earn a medical degree possibly in sports medicine. She wants to be able to help give back to her parents, supporters, and sponsors for always helping her find a way to make her dreams happen.
Brock Conrad was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field and court. What he loves most about high school sports is the competition that comes along with the sports as well as the support. He wants the player next to him to succeed, but he also wants to beat them. Brock competes in basketball and track and field. He participates in the National Honors Society and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He is also involved in the Harrison County Community Service food pantry where he distributes food to community members in need. Agriculture to Brock is more than harvesting crops or raising cattle. It is the building blocks of becoming who he is. The early mornings and late nights going to work teach discipline and work ethic. It took his father around 20 years to build what he has now. This has taught him that it takes years to accomplish dreams, and every day until then is a grind for that goal. Brock will be continuing his education at the University of Kentucky to study marketing while competing in track and field.
Isabelle Abner was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court and course. What she loves most about high school sports is that she gets to work continuously and improve skills she will use throughout her life. She has also enjoyed being a team leader and encouraging her teammates to push through and do their best. Isabelle competes in varsity tennis and golf. She is involved in, FFA, Business Professionals of America, Honor Society, student government, Science Olympiad, academic team, Renaissance Club, Leo Club, and the prom committee. Outside of school and sports, she participates in 4-H and is a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church. Agriculture to Isabelle combines the activities she enjoys while being the foundation of her future career. Its many facets offer a deep-rooted connection to her community. Isabelle’s goal is to graduate with a well-rounded education that equips her for a multifaceted management and leadership position in agribusiness. She envisions a career where she can contribute to sustainable agricultural practices, enhance food production processes, and lead teams that prioritize innovation and efficiency.
Emery Deaton was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field. What he loves most about high school sports are the lessons that are taught and learned through the life of a student-athlete. Throughout his high school career, he has learned a great deal about perseverance, strong work ethic, leadership, and consistency. Emery competes in football and track and field. He is involved in the Leadership Council, FFA, and Cougars for Christ. Outside of school and sports, he participates in 4-H. Growing up on a grain and livestock farm has taught him priceless lessons about hard work, patience, and faith. Everywhere he looks on a farm, whether caring for a sick animal or investing in a seed to germinate to grow and be ready to harvest in a few short months, there are life lessons all around him. Agriculture allows him to appreciate the land and have a great deal of satisfaction in his work. Once farming is in his blood, it’s impossible to get it out. After graduating high school, Emery plans on playing football in college and eventually taking over the family farm.
Sierra Hawley was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court. Along with the good and bad experiences that sports have put her through, she would say the thing she loves most about high school sports is the way these experiences have shaped her and will continue to impact her for the rest of her life. Sports at her high school is something that brings the community together as a whole, and it’s an amazing feeling to see a full crowd support her. She loves the feeling of stepping on the field or court, knowing that all her hard work is about to be tested. No one likes to lose, but she’s come to realize that she learns the most from losing, and she can’t grow until she fails. Beyond the competition aspect, high school sports have allowed her to surround herself with teammates and coaches who have pushed and supported her through everything. The countless hours of dedication she’s given to three different sports over the last few years have taught her discipline, leadership, resilience, and teamwork. At school, Sierra is involved in varsity volleyball, basketball, and tennis. Outside of sports, she is involved in the National Honor Society (NHS), Spanish club, art club, Student Council, prom committee, and FFA. Outside school, she is involved in Kosciusko Youth Leadership Academy (KYLA), Leadership Marshall County Emerge (LMC), 4-H, and Jr. Leaders. Sierra’s KYLA group puts boxes in local schools, churches, and banks to collect donated clothing, hygiene items, and craft supplies, which they then set up a little “shop” at Cardinal Services in Warsaw. Cardinal provides services for children and adults with disabilities. With the remaining donations, they bring them to local homeless shelters. Her involvement with Jr. Leaders through 4-H has allowed her to participate in various community service projects such as volunteering at the humane society, local food pantries, and Cultivate Food Rescue. In FFA, she completes many community service projects as well. Every year she makes tie blankets to give to Riley’s Children’s Hospital, participates in roadside cleanup, and attends the Farmers Breakfast, where they make pancakes and sausage for their local farmers to come in and eat for free. Most people think agriculture is just farming, but it means more to Sierra. To her, it means hard work, responsibility, and a way of life that feeds and sustains her community. Being involved in 4-H and FFA for eight years has given her hands-on experience that has deepened her respect for the farmers and agricultural leaders of the world. Whether she’s raising livestock or working on a 4-H project, she’s come to understand the dedication it takes to succeed in agriculture. It has taught her leadership, problem-solving, and the importance of innovation in this advancing industry. In a way, agriculture brings communities together and she is proud to say she’s a part of something that plays such a vital role in everyday life. Sierra’s plans aren’t fully set in stone, but she knows she wants to do something in the medical field so she can help people. As of right now, she wants to pursue a career in radiology and potentially attend the University of IU Bloomington.
Molly Scherzer was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court. She loves many things about playing high school sports, such as her teammates and her memories with them. Volleyball provides a fun and competitive environment that allows her to play the sport she loves while developing her work ethic, physical growth, social interaction, and other life lessons. She also loves the bond her team has. They always have each other’s backs and cheer each other on, and their friendship will carry on for the rest of their lives. Molly competes in volleyball and she is involved in Beta, Pep Club, FCA, and Educators Rising. Outside of school and sports, she has been a member of 4-H for 10 years, a camp counselor, the club president, a religion teacher, a volunteer at church picnics, a coach for 5th and 6th-grade volleyball, and a volunteer at volleyball camps for kids. Agriculture means a lot to Molly because she has grown up on a farm her entire life and both sides of her extended family are farmers. This experience taught her responsibility, a strong work ethic, problem-solving skills, and an appreciation for the environment. She is thankful for the opportunity to raise her own sheep herd and show goats and swine. After graduating high school, Molly plans to attend the University of Southern Indiana and earn a degree in elementary education.
Elijah Weible was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the mat. His favorite part about high school sports is pushing himself to be better. To Elijah, agriculture is about improvement. You see what works and what doesn’t, trying to better your crops or herd. Agriculture is about hard work and not giving up. Elijah is involved in FFA, wrestling and 4-H where he has served as the president of the Horse and Pony group as well as the vice president of the Lucky Ducks group. Elijahs future plans are to keep his part-time job doing earth work till he graduates high school, then transition to full time.
Shelby Lang was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the course. Her favorite part about high school sports is the learning experience. Every practice, match and tournament are another opportunity for her to learn more about her teammates, opponents, and the sport. To Shelby, agriculture is life. Not only does agriculture bring food and products to consumers all over the world, but it also provides many skills and teaches people to live a lifetime of work ethic and trust. Having grown up on a farm, Shelby knows firsthand the impact agriculture has on her family and community. She is a class officer (secretary), FFA vice president and a Farm Bureau representative. She is also involved in Key Club, Student Council, and 4-H. After Shelby graduates she would like to go to college for chemical engineering. She would like to attend either Purdue University, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, or the University of Southern Indiana.
Alaina Allyn was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the field. Her favorite part about high school sports is the competition between all the local schools in her conference. She also enjoys the support from the school and community when her team competes. To Alaina, agriculture has always been a big part of her life. She grew up on a family farm and she claims it has truly impacted her life for the better. Alaina is involved in softball, swim team, cheerleading, Key Club, Student Council, DECA and FFA. In the future she would like to attend college to become a speech pathologist and try to play softball at the collegiate level.
Kaden Barlow was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the court. His favorite part about high school sports is being able to be a part of something fun and exciting. To Kaden, there is nothing more exciting than sports, whether you are playing or watching them. Agriculture is Kaden’s home and future. Growing up on a family farm, he has learned a lot of life skills. Kaden is involved in soccer, basketball, baseball, FFA and his church. He volunteers at his local food pantry, and he runs a produce stand with his sister, where they sell pumpkins, sweetcorn, and sunflowers. Kaden’s future plans are to attend Purdue University and eventually take over his family farm.
Dane Kunz was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field. His favorite part about high school sports is being able to have fun and compete with his friends. To Dane, agriculture means involvement. He is involved with taking care of the environment and animals in 4-H. Dane also participates in football, basketball, FFA, FCA, and 4-H. His future plans are currently undecided.
Elijah Taylor was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field. His favorite part about high school sports is playing on Friday nights and being on the field with his brother and teammates. To Elijah, agriculture is about legacy. He grew up on a family farm that has been around for many generations. He hopes that his farm will continue to be around for many more years. Elijah is involved in football, lacrosse, FFA, 4-H and church group. He is involved in community cleanup and helps with Feed the Farmer Day. Elijah plans to farm and raise show cattle as well as work with his brother.
Will Warnock was nominated as Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field. Will’s favorite part about high school sports is the friendships and memories he has made. To Will, agriculture means a lot. He has been around it his whole life and plans to continue to be apart of agriculture throughout his life. Will is involved in football, wrestling, FCA, FFA, student council, National Honor Society, volunteers at the fire department and is very active within his church. Will’s future plans are to attend Purdue University and study agribusiness.
Keith Pluimer was nominated as Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field. His favorite part about high school sports is the connection and bond formed with teammates. As well as having coaches that are there to support not only on the field, but also in activities off the field. To Keith, agriculture has been a way of life. He grew up on a family farm where they harvest grain and raise livestock. Keith is involved in football, FFA, CYO, 4-H and church youth group. His future plans are to attend college and get a degree in ag business and business administration.
Hattie Hobbs was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court. Her favorite part about high school sports is working hard and pushing herself to become the best athlete she can. Hattie also enjoys pushing her teammates and helping them achieve their goals. Agriculture is her lifestyle and family tradition. She is a third generation cattle farmer and has known how to show cattle since before she could walk. Hattie is involved in FFA, NHS, volleyball, track, cheer, 4-H and is a livestock ambassador for the beef barn. Her future plans are to attend college to study in agriculture education or agriculture commutations. She wants to be able to bring back what she learned about agriculture back to her community and her family farm.
Conner Reed was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field. His favorite part about high school sports is the opportunity to compete in a sport that he loves alongside his friends. He also enjoys all the life lessons sports teaches. To Conner, agriculture is the backbone of America. It supplies the world with food, clothing and jobs, and it takes a lot of hard work, patience and dedication to farm and raise livestock. Conner is involved in soccer, FFA, Wells County 4-H, campus life and has volunteered for Wells County Karing for Kids. His future plans are to attend college to study pre-veterinary medicine. He also has an interest in animal chiropractic care.
Lauryn Merritt was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court. Her favorite thing about high school sports is how it has helped her be more organized and driven, forcing her to stay on top of her school. She also enjoys being a mentor to younger athletes. Lauryn is involved in basketball, track, cross country, FFA, National Honor Society, Sunshine Society, FCA, SADD, 4-H, Miami County Junior Leaders and volunteers for the Fairy Godmother Project. Lauryn also did “Harvest for Hunger” as her FFA SAE, a large fundraising initiative to help her local food pantry, raising over $36,000 that went towards purchasing food. For Lauryn, agriculture is more than planting crops and raising animals. Her school has a “Farm to School” program where classmates get to learn about agriculture and all the areas affected by it by raising cattle to be part of the school lunch program. Agriculture has touched Lauryn in many ways. She hopes to return to her hometown after playing basketball and studying agriculture education at Huntington University. Lauryn would like to be a middle school ag teacher and co-sponsor of the FFA program.
Oliver Taylor was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the court. His favorite thing about high school sports is being with his team and learning from his coaches. Oliver is involved in football, lacrosse, FFA, 4-H and C9. He has also been involved with community cleanup after a tornado and he’s an active member of his church. Agriculture means everything to Oliver. He has grown up on a fifth generation farm and has helped his family work hard to provide food to people in the community. He prays farming and raising cattle are in his future and hopes to continue farming with his brother and sisters.
Taylor Turpin was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court. Her favorite part about high school sports is the friendships she has been able to make. Sports also have helped her get out of her comfort zone and made her a better and more confident leader. Growing up on a farm helped Taylor to see the importance of agriculture. It is her family’s way of contributing to world. She also believes that agriculture is a way of fulfilling God’s purpose for his creation. Taylor is involved in pep club, impact club, beta club, class president, basketball, track, volleyball, is a classroom aide and participated in a IHSAA leadership conference. She also helps at Shoals Elementary girls basketball practices, IDES Food Packing, church group and Mayors youth council. Taylor’s future plans are to attend college in Indiana and majoring in either plant science or crop science.
Carter Craig was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field. Carter’s favorite part about high school sports is all the great memories he has created with his friends. He also enjoys challenging himself everyday at practices and focusing on daily improvement. To Carter, agriculture means a certain way of life and is a big key in his future. He views agriculture as a way to gain new responsibilities each in every day. Carter is involved in NHS, FFA, Skillathon, crops team and helps with his local food pantry, 4-H and many more community activities. Carter’s future plans are to stay involved in agriculture.
Brooke Rasche was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the course. Her favorite thing about high school sports is the relationships she’s made while playing against other schools. For Brooke, agriculture is a way of life. Brooke is involved in golf, FFA, Beta, NHS, Spirit Club, FCCLA, SADD and youth group. She also helps with 10U softball team.
Logan Teichman was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field. His favorite things about high school sports are the competition, his teammates and the team environment. For Logan, agriculture has been a big part of his life, from helping his grandpa farm when he was younger to working with local farmers now. Agriculture has taught Logan important lessons such as hard work, appreciation and adaptability. Logan is involved in football, track (shotput and discus), volleyball, student council, FFA, FCA, NHS, the local Lions Club and his church. After high school, Logan plans to study engineering or ag business so that he can stay in an agricultural field.
Cade Shelton was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field. His favorite part about high school sports is playing for his community and the teachable life lessons learned through sports. To Cade, agriculture means feeding the people of the world and working hard for what you have. Cade is involved in football, basketball, baseball, FFA, campus life, 4-H and Hope Missionary Youth Group. His future plans are to attend Huntington University to study agriculture and play baseball.
Hayden Brown was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field. His favorite part about high school sports is spending time with his friends and great role models (coaching staff) every day after school. To Hayden, agriculture is the backbone of our country. Without agriculture and farmers, we would have nothing. Hayden is involved in STEM Club, NHS, Technology Student Association, campus life and volunteers in various community service events. His future plans are currently undecided.
Ava Budak was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the course. Her favorite part about high school sports is that she gets out of it what she puts in. She also loves being able to connect with her teammates as well as meet athletes from other schools. To Ava, agriculture means efficiency. Whether it is livestock, crops, business or people, finding the most efficient method is such an important focus. She is involved in student council, SWARM (a peer mentoring program), DECA and the Hornet Café, FCA, FFA, NHS, Key Club, academic team and cross country. In her community, she is the president in 4-H and participated in the community science fair. Ava’s future plans are currently undecided.
Hannah Carr was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the course. Her favorite part about high school sports is the friendship and encouragement from teammates. To Hannah, agriculture is the food on the table, the clothes on her back, the gas in her car, the miles of cornfield, the pastures full of cattle and the goats in the back yard. Agriculture and the agricultural community is something Hannah holds very near to her heart. Hannah is involved in golf, FFA, American Legion, The Elks Lodge and 4-H. Hannah’s future plans are to attend Vincennes Universities Welding program in the fall to get her welding certification to become a structural welder.
Allison Clamme was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court. Her favorite part about high school sports is the competitive environment and sharing that love with like-minded people. In cross country and track, she can be part of a community that uses endurance, discipline and strength to accomplish their goals. To Allison, agriculture has played a big part in her life. She doesn’t live on a farm, but her grandfather used to raise cattle and is a crop farmer. Her family has had a pumpkin patch for the past couple of years and being involved in that process has grown her appreciation for agriculture. She is involved in cross country, track, FFA, NHS, class officers, band, church group, community food drive and 4-H. Her future plans are to attend college to major in either environmental science or political science as well as continue her running career.
Katherine Sarver was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the track. She says her favorite part about high school sports is the friendships built through competing. For Katherine, agriculture is a way of life. She says it teaches you hard work as well as how to take on adversity. Katherine is involved in basketball, track, 4-H, Junior Department Club and youth ministry. She plans to attend college after high school and become a lawyer or engineer.
Grace Kreischer, Saint Joe, IN
Grace Kreischer was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the field. Grace loves the competitive spirit in high school sports. Whether she is playing softball or basketball there are always challenges that push her to be the best athlete and person she can be. Through sports she has learned many different life lessons that have formed her into who she is today. Agriculture is a vital part of Grace’s life. Growing up on a farm she has learned to value a life of integrity and hard work. Grace is involved in basketball, softball, FFA, NHS, Interact, 4-H and takes her faith very seriously. Once Grace graduates, she plans to earn a bachelor’s degree in animal science, emphasis on pre-veterinary medicine with a minor in agriculture business management, then pursue a doctorate degree in veterinary medicine.
Kori Cornett, Dillsboro, IN
Kori Cornett was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the field. Her favorite part about high school sports is developing a family on the field and seeing all your hard work pay off when you win a game. Agriculture has made Kori who she is today, and she is very thankful for all the farmers who work ceaselessly every day. Kori is involved in softball and is the president of her local FFA chapter. When she graduates, she plans on attending college to become a veterinarian.
Owen Hinchman, Elwood, IN
Owen Hinchman was nominated as Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field. His favorite part about high school sports are the memories he has made with his teammates. To Owen, agriculture is a way of understanding the diversity in career fields. Agriculture is one of the most diverse career paths someone can take. It provides jobs for thousands of Americans each day and is extremely important for our economy. Agriculture also provides food and raw materials that will be utilized all around the world. Owen is involved in tennis, Student Council, Class Officer, Bring Change to Mind, Elks Antlers, and Youth Leadership Academy. After graduation, Owen would like to attend a research school to earn a nursing degree and become a nurse practitioner.
Caleb Evans, Vincennes, IN
Caleb Evans was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the court. His favorite part about high school sports is the experience and atmosphere. To Caleb, agriculture is a lifestyle that not only allows him and his family to work together but it allows them to make a living by helping feed the world. Caleb is involved in tennis, golf, Student Council, and is a junior class officer. After graduation, Caleb would like to go to a 4-year college to study accounting.
Allie Younce, Sharpsville, IN
Allie Younce was nominated as Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court. Her favorite part about high school sports is the bond formed between teammates and coaches as well as the competitive atmosphere they create. Sports helped her build her confidence both physically and mentally and they have taught her how to better respond to conflict. To Allie agriculture is the foundation of community and it’s specifically important to her community. Agriculture is important in providing the world with its necessities as well as providing opportunity and teaching life lessons. Allie is involved in volleyball, basketball, Student Council, class president, National Honor Society, FCA, cheer block, church youth group, community food drives, praise and worship team, VBS volunteer, and has participated in various mission trips. Once Allie graduates, she plans to attend Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) to pursue a degree in nursing and minoring in ministry. She would love to utilize her nursing career to pursue medical evangelism in other countries. Later in her career she may pursue a practitioner’s degree. She is determined to impact the lives of others and serve them!
Reagan Koester, Wadesville, IN
Reagan Koester was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the field. Her favorite part about high school sports is the family atmosphere that is created with her team, coaches, and supporters. To Reagan, agriculture is all about opportunity. Growing up on a farm has given her a hard work ethic and one thing that was engraved into her head is that “winners never sleep in.” Being involved in different agricultural organizations such as FFA and 4H has taught her public speaking skills, leadership skills and organizational skills. Reagan is her FFA president, 4-H president, Business Professionals of America president, class vice president and Student Council president. She is a part of speech and debate, FCA, NPTV, NHS, math bowl, Big Brothers Big Sisters, soccer, track, United Way, youth group, young life, Indiana State Fair, and many service projects. Once Reagan graduates, she plans to attend Purdue University studying agricultural business with a concentration in finance with plans to go to law school for a law degree in agricultural law, estate planning, elder law, and corporate law.
Taylor Kneubuhler, Harlan, IN
Taylor Kneubuhler was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her efforts on and off the court. Her favorite thing about high school sports is playing with people who are also willing to put in the work to achieve a goal together. Agriculture has been a huge part of Taylor’s life, growing up on a farm and getting to show her friends all the different experiences is something she truly enjoys. Taylor is involved in volleyball, basketball, track, Athletic Student Council, National Honor Society, and 4-H, and she’s involved with her church. After graduation, Taylor wants to attend Purdue University to study agriculture.
Andrew Hargrove, Indianapolis, IN
Andrew Hargrove was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his efforts on and off the field. Andrew’s favorite thing about high school sports is the intensity and competitiveness. Being involved with agriculture has taught Andrew the value of hard work and that there’s no excuse for skipping out on work. Andrew is involved in football, baseball, National Technical Honor Society, and Athletic Leadership Board, and participates in community service opportunities. After graduation, Andrew would like to play a sport in college while studying to become an athletic trainer.
Emma Need, Monticello, IN
Emma Need was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her efforts on and off the court. Her favorite thing about high school sports is meeting new people and spending time with her teammates. She also likes the challenges of each sport. Agriculture has been a huge part of Emma’s life, watching her whole family farm for years and seeing what it takes to run a successful farm. Emma is involved in volleyball, basketball, tennis, school spirit club, student council, National Honors Society, and Alliance Bank Junior Board. After graduation, Emma plans to attend college for a major in dentistry with hopes to become a dental hygienist.
Jill Salmon, Orleans, IN
Jill Salmon was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her efforts on and off the court. Jill’s favorite thing about high school sports is the friendships she has been able to create with her teammates. To Jill, agriculture means providing the essentials, like food, that people need to live a healthy life. Jill is involved in volleyball, basketball, track and field, BPA, yearbook, Tri-Hi-Y, Pep Club, National Honors Society, FCA, 4-H, and church youth group. After graduation, Jill plans to attend college for a degree in sports management.
Kennedy Wagaman, Sullivan, IN
Kennedy Wagaman was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her efforts on and off the court. Her favorite thing about high school sports is the girt, hard work, passion, and fight that is required every day. She also loves the support from the community and the rivalry between schools. Agriculture has been a huge part of Kennedy’s life, teaching her so many life skills and providing many opportunities. Kennedy is involved in volleyball, track and field, FFA, Beta, 4-H, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). After graduation, Kennedy plans to play college volleyball and pursue a degree in either criminology, forensics, psychology, or sports psychology.
Coy Pefley, Huntington, IN
Coy Pefley was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his efforts on and off the field. Coy’s favorite thing about high school sports is spending every day with his teammates and the loud crowds on Friday nights. To Coy, agriculture is more than just a job, it’s a true lifestyle. Coy is involved in football and golf and helps with his church’s youth group. After graduation, Coy plans to become a salesman at an auction company that specializes in agricultural and construction equipment sales.
Carol Witt, Fairbanks, Indiana
Carol Witt was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her efforts on and off the course. Her favorite thing about high school sports is the connections she gets to make with her teammates and opponents. Over the years, Carol’s passion for agriculture has grown. She realized there is a spot for everyone in agriculture and you can learn many life skills. Carol is actively involved in cheer and golf, FFA, 4-H, Student Council, National Honors Society, Beta Club, Key Club, and National History Honors Society. She is also highly involved in volunteer community activities. Carol is still deciding on what she would like to do after high school graduation, but she is considering a degree in agriculture communications, agriculture education, or something else.
Brock Robinson, Rensselaer, Indiana
Brock Robinson was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his efforts on and off the field/mat. Brock’s favorite thing about high school sports is the team spirit and competitiveness. To Brock, agriculture means raising and growing food to feed the world. Brock is involved in football, wrestling, track and field, FFA, 4-H, and NJHS. He also likes to help those in his community however he can. After graduation, Brock plans to become a diesel mechanic.
Brayden Combs, West Harrison, Indiana
Brayden Combs was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his efforts on and off the field. Brayden’s favorite part about high school sports is the fans and seeing a packed student section full of students ready to support their school. To Brayden, agriculture means family. His grandparents own a small farm where they worked together to build a greenhouse to produce vegetables that the whole family enjoys. Brayden is involved in football and track, and he helps run softball games as well as JV football games and middle school track meets. Once Brayden graduates, he desires to pursue a career in football.
Lowell Berger, Economy, Indiana
Lowell Berger was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his efforts on and off the field. Lowell’s favorite part about high school sports is working hard and pushing his teammates to achieve their goals. To Lowell, agriculture is his family’s legacy. He is a seventh-generation farmer, and it is important to him to keep farming in the family. Lowell is involved in FFA, National Honor Society, football, track, 4-H, and church. Once Lowell graduates, he plans to go to college to pursue a degree in agriculture.
Claire Burbrink, Terre Haute, Indiana
Claire Burbrink was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her efforts on and off the court. Her favorite thing about high school volleyball is her teammates. Her teammates are like a family to her, and she loves the atmosphere volleyball creates. Claire grew up in a family farm and is thankful for the experiences it has given her. Agriculture has shaped her into the person she is today and has brought her family closer together. Claire is involved in volleyball, 4-H, Junior Department Club, and she is the FFA vice president of her chapter. After high school Claire plans on attending Perdue University to study speech therapy.
Dillon Heaton, Frankfort, Indiana
Dillon Heaton was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his efforts on and off the field. Dillon’s favorite part about high school sports is the energy level of teams and fans. To him agriculture is a huge part of his life. Dillon has always been interested in ag because of the influence it has on our everyday lives. Dillon is involved in cross country, basketball, baseball, National Junior Honors Society, and FFA. A few years ago Dillon and his sister started what they call Blessing Bags. These are bags full of socks, gloves, tooth brushes and other useful things that they pass out to the homeless. When Dillon graduates he plans on attending college somewhere for baseball or to continue learning about agriculture.
Nate Engstrand, Rochester, IN
Nate Engstrand was selected as a Beck’s Player With Heart for his efforts on and off the field. His favorite thing about high school sports is how there is nothing else like it when you step on the field. Playing high school sports is an opportunity that you should take because it shows your mental and physical toughness. To Nate, agriculture is being able to drive around the block and see what all of America’s farmers are doing and continuing for generations ahead by growing crops and farming the land of our ancestors. Nate is involved in ag, football, and track. He plans to go trade school to become a welder and keep White Oaks Bison Farm going for years to come.
Maggie Sarver, Terre Haute, IN
Maggie Sarver was selected as a Beck’s Player With Heart for her efforts on and off the field. Her favorite thing about high school cheer is the excitement of cheering her team on! It is such a great feeling to see everyone supporting each other. Agriculture has always been a part of Maggie’s life. She’s learned about hard work and responsibility from agriculture, as every part of it requires working when the job needs done, not just when it’s convenient. Maggie is involved in cheer and is the reporter of her local FFA chapter. After she graduates high school Maggie plans on attending Purdue University to study sports psychology.