PLATTEVILLE, Wis. – The University of Wisconsin-Platteville athletic department hosted the Golden Pickaxe award show on the evening of Monday, May 4.

The event honored student-athlete performances both on the playing field, in the weight room, and in the classroom with awards that were selected by coaches from every sport.

2026 Golden Pickaxe Award Winners

Pioneer Difference Maker – Ashley Weir (Women's Basketball)
Female Newcomer of the Year – Delila Liston (Softball)
Male Newcomer of the Year – Adam Whittier (Wrestling)
Male Pioneer Built Award – Zach Fier (Men's Soccer)
Female Pioneer Built Award – Abby Bauer (Volleyball)
Moment of the Year – Women's Basketball's First Ever NCAA Tournament Berth
Co-Assistant Coach of the Year – Riley Kelsch (Softball) and Alex Friddle (Wrestling)
Pioneer Impact Awards – Brian Holtrop (Football Equipment Manager), Kellen Bornbach (Associate Head Strength and Conditioning Coach), and Tim Deis (Faculty Athletic Representative)
Male Scholar Athlete – Connor Gresens (Baseball)
Female Scholar Athlete – Kierney McDonald (Volleyball)
Male Career Achievement Award – Seth Aiken (Men's Soccer)
Female Career Achievement Award – Izzy Peterson (Track and Field)