Gainesville, FL

Kailyn Howard was honored at the 18th annual Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Heart of Champions Banquet. This years banquet was held at Greenhouse Church as they welcomed FCA commitee and board members, volunteers, coaches and athletes in all of North Central Florida. The annual event is an opportunity for FCA board members to honor outstanding North Central Florida student-athletes who excemplify the pillars of FCA.  Each year a keynote speakers shares an inspirational personal story.  Mr. Darryl Strawberry (pictured with Howard) headlined this year's banquet.  Strawberry is a four time World Series Champion and National League Rookie of the Year in 1983.  

"Kailyn has been an exceptional leader for our volleyball team here at Santa Fe and she also serves on our Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) as our Vice President.  She is always sending out encouraging texts to our SAAC and leads well on and off the court.  Proud to know she is being honored by FCA!" Commented Athletic Director Chanda Stebbins.

FCA officials recognize high school student-athletes as well as UF and SF student-athletes who have the Heart of a Champion as defined by the values of integrity, service, teamwork, and excellence. This award specifically recognizes individuals who inspire others through their dedication both on and off the fields and courts, embodying the spirit of sportsmanship, perserverance and integrity. Kailyn Howard was this year's receipent from Santa Fe College as she represented the Saints at the banquet. Recipients are celebrated for their positive influence on their teams and in their communities, serving as role models of faith, strength, and determination. The Heart of a Champion Award highlights not only athletic success but also the influential impact of faith in shaping a well rounded and influential athlete. Previous Santa Fe College recepients have been Kelli Cunningham (2023) and Joshua Watkins (2024).