In recognition of their perseverance and grit, San Diego State's own Alyssa Schiller and Katie Senn have been nominated as two of only three finalists for the prestigious 2026 Honda Inspiration Award. The accolade, part of the Collegiate Women's Sports Awards (CWSA), is reserved for female athletes who exemplify determination as they overcome either physical or emotional challenges to return to athletic competition.
This recognition serves as a milestone for San Diego State, as it is the first time an Aztec has ever been named a finalist for the award. The honor has been awarded annually for the past 38 years and athletes from Divisions I, II, and III are eligible. Out of this year’s national pool of 20 nominees, the two Aztecs have shown resilience and strength despite fighting personal battles.
Alyssa Schiller (left) and Katie Senn. Credit: San Diego State Athletics
Alyssa Schiller
For nearly three years, swimmer Alyssa Schiller competed despite facing a variety of unknown symptoms, including nausea, severe dizziness, temporary vision loss, and constant shaking. Her search for a diagnosis was long and ongoing. Doctors eventually determined that she had Lyme disease and Bartonella. The physical toll of recovery and treatment made for a difficult time, but her struggle became much more challenging when she learned of her father’s terminal cancer diagnosis. Despite these physical and emotional hurdles, Schiller returned to the pool for the 2025-2026 season and etched her name into the San Diego State record books with top-ten all-time marks in the 50 and 100-yard freestyle as well as multiple freestyle and medley relay events.
“My journey taught me that resilience isn't pretending everything is okay,” Schiller said. “It's choosing to keep showing up, even when life looks different than you expected.”
Schiller attributes her ability to navigate these difficult times to the support team around her, including her parents, coaches, teammates, friends and doctors. She emphasized that, “Looking back, those moments showed me just how many people were carrying me when I didn't have the full strength to carry myself.”
Now one of only three finalists, her story serves a purpose greater than just athletic achievement. “What makes this [recognition] especially meaningful is knowing that my story has the potential to give someone else hope,” said Schiller.
Swimmer Alysssa Schiller. Credit: San Diego State Athletics
Katie Senn
Senior soccer player Katie Senn is the second Honda Inspiration Award finalist from San Diego State. To treat her severe scoliosis, Senn underwent a grueling 8-hour spinal fusion surgery, including the placement of two rods and 24 screws. Her recovery was incredibly lengthy and required extensive rehabilitation for her to come back to competition.
Senn redshirted in her junior season but had a standout senior season. She quickly emerged as a leader on the team, recording a personal and team-best eight assists as well as two goals throughout the 2025 season. She also led the team in total points with 12 (calculated as one point per assist and two points per goal). She finished second in the Mountain West in assists and earned second-team Mountain West honors.
Soccer player Katie Senn. Credit: San Diego State Athletics
The Nomination Process
Each year, a call for nominations is sent to all Senior Woman Administrators, Sports Information Directors and Athletic Directors of all NCAA-sanctioned schools. A special committee of the CWSA Board reads the materials for the nominees and narrows down the field to three finalists. Then the entire Board of Directors chooses the Inspiration Award winner.
Their stories on screen
The stories of both of the women demonstrate resilience and serve as motivation for us all as they overcame obstacles, all while standing out as athletes. Both of their stories will be featured in a CBS Sports Network Program, “Defying The Odds: The 2026 Honda Inspiration Award,” airing July 20. Beyond the award, though, the presence of these two finalists is truly inspiring to athletes everywhere.
The final winner of the award will be announced by the CWSA board of directors in July. The winner’s story will be celebrated alongside the full Class of 2026 during a live telecast presented by Honda on CBS Sports Network, airing Monday, July 27 at 4 p.m. PT.
Mark your calendar to watch.
July 20 | 4 p.m. PT | All Three Finalists’ Stories Featured | CBS Sports Network
July 27 | 4 p.m. PT | Inspiration Award Winner Celebrated | CBS Sports Network
