Michael Adedokun and Makenna Webster Earn Well-Deserved Honors as Ohio State’s 2024 Athletes of the Year Winners

The Ohio State Buckeyes have a rich tradition of athletic excellence, and that legacy only grew stronger in 2024, thanks to the remarkable achievements of Michael Adedokun and Makenna Webster. These two standout athletes have been rightfully named the Ohio State University Athletes of the Year, etching their names into Buckeye history for their incredible performances and impact on their respective sports.

For Michael Adedokun, this recognition caps off a season that will go down as one of the most historic in Ohio State Men’s Soccer history. The talented forward didn’t just elevate his own game in 2024 — he elevated the entire program. Adedokun made national headlines by capturing the prestigious MAC Hermann Trophy, awarded annually to the top player in NCAA Division I Men’s Soccer. In doing so, he became the first Ohio State men’s soccer player ever to claim college soccer’s highest individual honor, cementing his status as a Buckeye legend.

The magnitude of Adedokun’s accomplishment cannot be overstated. For decades, the MAC Hermann Trophy has recognized icons of the sport — players who have gone on to international careers and professional success. For Ohio State, a university deeply committed to athletic greatness, it was only a matter of time before one of its soccer stars broke through on the national stage. That moment arrived with Adedokun’s phenomenal 2024 campaign.

The dynamic forward’s season was nothing short of spectacular. His combination of speed, skill, and scoring instinct made him nearly unplayable for opposing defenses. Whether slicing through defenders with dazzling footwork or finishing with precision in front of goal, Adedokun consistently delivered for the Buckeyes. His relentless work ethic, leadership, and passion for the game were evident every time he took the pitch, inspiring teammates and fans alike.

Adedokun’s performances helped guide the Buckeyes to one of their most successful seasons in recent memory, putting Ohio State soccer firmly in the national conversation. His historic achievement as the university’s first MAC Hermann Trophy winner marks a turning point for the program, signaling that Ohio State soccer is not only producing elite talent but is ready to compete among the nation’s best year after year.

While Adedokun dazzled on the soccer field, Makenna Webster was making headlines of her own — both on the ice and the turf. Few athletes embody versatility, dedication, and pure competitive excellence like Webster, whose two-sport dominance in 2024 captivated the Buckeye faithful.

In field hockey, Webster delivered one of the finest seasons in Ohio State history. The standout attacker racked up an incredible 42 points, leading the Buckeyes in scoring and playmaking. But perhaps even more impressive is her consistency and historic accomplishment: Webster became the first Ohio State field hockey player in nearly three decades to record back-to-back 40-point seasons. Such a feat speaks to both her elite talent and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Webster’s impact wasn’t limited to the turf. When the Buckeye women’s hockey team took to the ice, Webster was right there, showcasing her incredible athleticism and hockey IQ. Despite splitting her time between two demanding sports — a challenge few athletes at the Division I level attempt — Webster still managed to finish fourth on the women’s hockey team in scoring, posting 35 points in just 30 games.

It’s difficult to overstate how rare Webster’s dual-sport success truly is. Balancing two physically demanding, high-stakes seasons simultaneously requires not only elite conditioning but also immense mental toughness, time management, and an unrelenting competitive drive. Yet, Webster made it look effortless. Whether lacing up skates for a conference showdown or leading the field hockey squad against nationally ranked opponents, she brought the same energy, leadership, and winning mentality to both teams.

Her contributions on the ice were vital to the women’s hockey program, one of the most competitive in the country. Even with limited games played compared to her teammates, Webster’s offensive production and on-ice presence made her a game-changer whenever she suited up for the Buckeyes. Her ability to transition seamlessly between sports, all while excelling at the highest level, is a testament to her extraordinary work ethic and athletic gifts.

Together, Adedokun and Webster’s achievements in 2024 epitomize the very best of Ohio State athletics. They represent not only individual excellence but also the core Buckeye values of perseverance, leadership, and a relentless pursuit of greatness. Their legacies extend beyond the stats and records — they have inspired the next generation of student-athletes at Ohio State to dream bigger and work harder.

The Ohio State community, from fans and students to coaches and alumni, celebrates these two remarkable athletes with immense pride. Their dedication and accomplishments reflect the strength of the university’s athletic programs and its commitment to nurturing elite competitors who excel on the field, on the ice, and in the classroom.

As Ohio State looks ahead to future seasons, the example set by Michael Adedokun and Makenna Webster will undoubtedly serve as a benchmark for what is possible when talent, determination, and Buckeye spirit come together. Their names are now forever etched into the fabric of Ohio State sports history, joining a long line of icons who have worn the scarlet and gray with pride.

Congratulations to Michael Adedokun, Makenna Webster, and the entire Buckeye community on an unforgettable year of achievement. These two remarkable athletes have shown the world what it means to be a Buckeye — champions not only in competition but also in heart, character, and dedication.

Here’s to the continued success of Ohio State Athletics — and to the bright futures that surely await Michael Adedokun and Makenna Webster, wherever their athletic journeys take them next. Go Bucks!