Meet the 2025 Bonham Award Winners: Wahinekapu, Wedderburn, and Schager Shine at University of Hawai’i at Manoa Athletics!

HONOLULU — At the 12th annual H Awards held at SimpliFi Arena, the University of Hawai’i presented the prestigious Jack Bonham Award to three outstanding student-athletes: Lily Wahinekapu from women’s basketball, Jordan Wedderburn from women’s water polo, and Brayden Schager from football.

These awards celebrate not just athletic skill but also academic achievement and community service. The Jack Bonham Award honors the memory of a dedicated athletics director who tragically lost his life in a plane crash in 1974 while returning from a recruiting trip.

Highlights of the Award Winners

Lily Wahinekapu, a star in women’s basketball, has built an impressive three-year career. With family cheering her on in the stands, she led her team in scoring every season. Under her captaincy, the Rainbow Wahine clinched multiple titles, including two Big West regular-season championships. She also gained recognition as the Big West Player of the Year in 2025, becoming just the third UH player to earn this award.

Off the court, Wahinekapu’s heart for service shines. She’s participated in community clean-up projects and raised funds for the Hawai’i Foodbank. According to her coach, Laura Beeman, Wahinekapu has been an inspiration, showcasing passion and teamwork.

Jordan Wedderburn exemplifies leadership in water polo. A key player for her team, she served as captain of South Africa’s Olympic water polo team before coming to UH. Throughout her four years, she consistently contributed to her team’s success, helping them achieve a record of 26-1 in conference play. Wedderburn’s academic commitment is also noteworthy; she maintains a 3.78 GPA while majoring in kinesiology and has received several honors for her academic performance.

Brayden Schager, the football star, made a mark as one of the top quarterbacks in UH history. With 37 starts, he ranks second all-time in the program. Beyond the field, Schager is known for his community engagement. He organized events for athletes with disabilities and was recognized nationally for service through the 2024 AFCA Good Works Team.

Conclusion

The Jack Bonham Award winners are not just athletes; they are role models who excel in their sports while making significant contributions to their communities. Their stories inspire others to balance achievement in both athletics and life.

For more information on the Jack Bonham Award and its significance, visit the University of Hawai’i Athletics site here.

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