A pair of Chinook high school athletes were recently named Montana's Wendy's High School Heisman Award winners.
Sugarbeeter seniors Ben Stroh and Kayla Hanson were both selected from a group of 20 finalists, based on their achievements in athletics, academics and community-school leadership.
Stroh has starred at both running back and linebacker for the top-ranked and defending state champion Chinook football team this fall, which just lost to Fairview in the Class C semifinals. Stroh was a huge part of Chinook's run to the Class C title last year and its overall 19-game winning streak through his junior and senior seasons. He had rushed for over 1,300 yards and scored 31 touchdowns this season. He had 42 solo tackles and 87 assists, plus two sacks, two interceptions, two fumble recoveries and two forced fumbles.
Stroh will now turn his attention to the wrestling season where he's seeking a coveted fourth Class B-C state champion. Stroh hasn't lost a single match since his freshman season and is widely considered the top high school wrestler in all of Montana.
Hanson has been an outstanding middle hitter for the Sugarbeeters this volleyball season. She finished among Chinook's leaders in blocks, kills and digs this season.
Last May in Missoula, she won the 100 and 300-meter hurdle events at the state Class C track and field meet as well as the feat the season before.
Hanson is a three-sport standout who also starts on the Chinook girls basketball team, helping lead the Beeters to the District 9C title a year ago, as well as strong showing in the Northern C Divisional Tournament.
Twelve of the state Heisman Award winners will be chosen as national finalists. Two national winners will be announced Dec. 10 on ESPN.
