TAMPA, Fla. – The Sun Conference announces its major award winners for the 2025 esports season.

Sebastian Lowe of SCAD Savannah has been named the Sun Conference Overwatch 2 Player of the Year. A two-time SUN Player of the Week, Lowe amassed over 100 eliminations and more than 45,000 damage during a remarkable two-week period. In his freshman season, he not only contributed impressive stats but also provided outstanding communication and leadership, helping lead SCAD to a Sun Conference Championship in Overwatch 2, as noted by his head coach.

Winston Haynes of Southeastern has been named the Rocket League Player of the Year. A repeat All-Conference honoree, Haynes also led the Fire to their second consecutive championship title in Rocket League. This season, Haynes achieved a total of 21 goals, 15 assists, and 7 saves. His coach has praised him for his consistent and well-rounded gameplay.

Hector Jimenez of Warner has been named this year's Super Smash Brothers Ultimate Player of the Year. Jimenez led the Royals to the grand finals and played a pivotal role in the team's success this season. He ended the season with a remarkable 101 total stocks taken, losing fewer than 20, and single-handedly defeated three of the opponents' roster members at various points throughout the season. Beyond gaming, Jimenez excels academically, maintaining a 3.95 GPA and participating in Warner's honors program.

Tyler Kennedy of Southeastern has been awarded this year’s Champion of Character. Kennedy was nominated for the award by his head coach, Ethan Cadore, for consistently displaying exemplary integrity, respect, and responsibility. A pre-med major with a 3.6 GPA and member of the SEU Honors College, Kennedy balances his academic excellence with competitive esports. Beyond his studies and sports, he volunteers as a coach at Lakeland Swans Soccer Club, mentoring young athletes and promoting teamwork and perseverance. Tyler's academic achievements, community service, and leadership make him an ideal candidate for this award.

Rick Allen from Texas A&M-Texarkana has been named Coach of the Year. In their debut season in The Sun Conference, Coach Allen guided his team to a Runner-Up finish in Rocket League and to the third-place match in Overwatch, demonstrating their competitiveness across multiple titles. Allen has also played a key role in developing various players who have earned Player of the Week honors this year.


2025 Sun Conference Esports Award Winners
 
Overwatch 2 Player of the Year
Sebastian Lowe, SCAD Savannah
 
Rocket League Player of the Year
Winston Haynes, Southeastern

Super Smash Brothers Ultimate Player of the Year
Hector Jimenez, Warner

Champion of Character
Tyler Kennedy, Southeastern
 
Coach of the Year
Rick Allen, Texas A&M-Texarkana

Click here to view all of this year's All-Conference honorees.
 
ABOUT THE SUN CONFERENCE
Now in its 35th year, The Sun Conference, a 501c3 organization, continues to be one of the most successful intercollegiate athletic conferences in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). Under the guidance of Commissioner Dustin Wilke, the league sponsors championships in 24 NAIA sports. Learn more at thesunconference.com