FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 23, 2025 Avery Hardebeck Named 2025 Journal & Courier Female Student-Athlete of the Year Oxford, IN – Benton Central High School is proud to announce that Avery Hardebeck, a multi-sport standout and accomplished senior, has been named the 2025 Journal & Courier Female Student-Athlete of the Year. The honor was announced during the annual NFF Honors Brunch held on Sunday, June 22, at the Purdue University Memorial Union Ballroom. The event is co-sponsored by the Journal & Courier, WLFI-TV, the Indiana Football Coaches Association, and the Joe Tiller Chapter of the National Football Foundation. To be considered for this prestigious award, nominees must be graduating seniors with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. The selection committee evaluates candidates based on academic achievement (primary), athletic performance (secondary), and involvement in extracurricular activities, including leadership, community service, and employment. Out of dozens of nominations across the region, twelve student-athletes were selected as finalists. From this elite group, Avery was chosen as the Female Student-Athlete of the Year, standing out as a role model in all facets of student life. Avery, the daughter of Brian and Jenelle Hardebeck, has been a three-sport varsity athlete in soccer, basketball, and tennis for the Bison. Her athletic success has been matched by her excellence in the classroom and her leadership within the Benton Central community. “Avery represents the best of what high school athletics and education are all about,” said Benton Central Athletic Director Jared Hall. “She leads with humility, competes with heart, and sets the standard for others to follow. We couldn’t be prouder of her.” Benton Central congratulates Avery on this remarkable achievement and wishes her continued success in all of her future endeavors.