Sonia Citron: The Embodiment of Notre Dame Excellence, Forever Immortalized
The hallowed halls of the University of Notre Dame bear witness to the countless achievements of its student-athletes, their dedication and prowess etched into the very fabric of the institution’s legacy. Among these celebrated figures, the annual selection of the Female Athlete of the Year stands as a pinnacle of recognition, honoring not only exceptional athletic performance but also the embodiment of the university’s values of sportsmanship, leadership, and unwavering commitment. As the academic and athletic year of 2024-2025 draws to a close, the name forever to be inscribed on that revered wall is Sonia Citron, a true embodiment of Fighting Irish spirit and athletic brilliance.
Sonia Citron, a senior guard for the Notre Dame women’s basketball team, has left an indelible mark on the program and the university as a whole. Her journey at Notre Dame has been one of consistent growth, marked by exceptional skill, unwavering determination, and a quiet leadership that inspired her teammates and captivated fans. Throughout the 2024-2025 season, Citron’s performance reached new heights, solidifying her status as one of the most impactful players in the nation and a deserving recipient of this prestigious honor.
On the court, Citron’s versatility and skill were undeniable. A potent offensive threat, she averaged an impressive 14.1 points per game, demonstrating her ability to score from beyond the arc with a 37.2% shooting percentage and her reliability at the free-throw line, sinking 89% of her attempts. Beyond scoring, Citron was a force on the boards, averaging 5.4 rebounds per game, and a key playmaker, contributing 2.7 assists per contest. Her impact extended to the defensive end as well, where her tenacity and intelligence allowed her to average 1.9 steals and 0.9 blocks per game, disrupting opponents’ offenses and sparking transition opportunities for the Irish.
However, statistics alone fail to fully capture Citron’s significance to the Notre Dame program. Her presence on the court exuded a sense of calm and control, earning her the moniker of “silent assassin” from head coach Niele Ivey. In crucial moments, when the pressure mounted, Citron consistently rose to the occasion, delivering pivotal plays and demonstrating an uncanny ability to impact the game in multiple facets. Her unselfishness and willingness to do the little things, the intangible contributions that often go unnoticed in the box score, were the glue that held the team together.
Citron’s senior season was a testament to her growth and maturity as a player. She started all 32 games, a consistent presence and a reliable force for the Irish. Her leadership, though often understated, was palpable. She led by example, her relentless work ethic and unwavering focus setting the tone for her teammates. In a team brimming with talent, Citron’s steady presence provided a crucial anchor, a calming influence that allowed others to thrive.
The impact of Sonia Citron’s career at Notre Dame is further underscored by her place in the program’s history. She concluded her collegiate career with 1,774 points and 714 rebounds in 124 games, an impressive statistical legacy. More remarkably, she stands alone as the only player in Notre Dame’s storied women’s basketball history to accumulate over 1,700 points, 700 rebounds, and 300 assists. This unique achievement speaks volumes about her well-rounded game and her consistent contributions across all aspects of the sport.
Beyond her individual accomplishments, Citron was an integral part of a Notre Dame squad that consistently competed at the highest level. Her junior year saw the team capture an ACC Tournament crown, a testament to their collective talent and Citron’s ability to elevate her game in the postseason, averaging an impressive 20.7 points in six tournament matchups. Her senior season saw the Irish navigate a challenging schedule and secure a strong NCAA Tournament seed, with Citron playing a pivotal role in their success.
The recognition of Sonia Citron as the 2025 Notre Dame Female Athlete of the Year is not merely an acknowledgment of her stellar athletic achievements. It is also a celebration of the qualities she embodies that align with the university’s core values. Her dedication to her craft, her unwavering commitment to her team, and her quiet yet impactful leadership exemplify the spirit of a Notre Dame student-athlete. She carried herself with grace and humility, earning the respect of her coaches, teammates, opponents, and the Notre Dame faithful.
As Sonia Citron’s name is forever etched onto the wall, it will serve as a lasting reminder of the exceptional talent and character that have graced the University of Notre Dame. Her journey is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and a selfless team-first mentality. She leaves behind a legacy of excellence, inspiring future generations of female athletes who aspire to represent the Fighting Irish with the same level of skill, integrity, and unwavering spirit. Her contributions to the Notre Dame women’s basketball program and the university community will be remembered for years to come, a shining example of what it means to be a Notre Dame Female Athlete of the Year.
