2025 HardyStrong Memorial Scholarship Recipients

Sara graduated from Huntley High School in Huntley, Illinois. During high school, Sara served on the Student Athletic Leadership Team, Student Council, and National Honor Society. Outside of school, she babysat, refereed youth volleyball, and tutored peers in math.
Sara was a two-year team captain for Girls Track and Field. She competed in shot put & discus, placing 4th in the IHSA Sectionals. Sara also was team captain for Girls Wrestling, placing 3rd in regionals.
Sara will be attending Carthage College and competing in both Wrestling and Track & Field. She intends to major in mathematics and computer science.
“Life can be stressful, and I’ve often caught myself overthinking and worrying about what’s ahead. But Justin’s legacy reminded me that life is short, and it’s important to live it to the fullest, without being weighed down by what might come. Moving forward, I will focus on making every day count, appreciating the present moments, and pursuing my passions with purpose.”

Brooklyn graduated from Aurora Central Catholic in Aurora, Illinois. During high school, Brooklyn was an active volunteer in her community and served as ACC’s cross country team manager.
Brooklyn competed in girls basketball for four years, leading the program to a school-record 27 wins in the 2024–2025 season. She set school records for the highest single-season three-point field goal percentage, the highest career three-point field goal percentage, and the highest single-season effective field goal percentage.
Brooklyn will be attending Wartburg College and playing basketball. She intends to major in sports management and has goals to eventually become a college basketball coach.
“Justin was incredibly confident, but at the same time equally humble. He treated all of his teammates, regardless of their role, like they were family. He made sure that they mattered. All Justin wanted to do was win. He did not care if he scored 30 points or 2 points. As a player, I try to model this. I always try to make the right basketball play, not the play that will get my name in the newspaper.”

Tessa graduated from Bethlehem High School in Bardstown, Kentucky. During high school, she was involved in National Honor Society, Student Council, and a wide variety of clubs and community volunteer opportunities.
Tessa is a four-year varsity soccer starter and the 2024 KHSAA State Champion. She was named 2024 5th Region Player of the Year, Offensive Player of the Year, and First Team All-State. A three-year varsity basketball starter, she was recognized as the 2024–25 Midway University/KHSAA Girls Basketball Student-Athlete of the Year.
Tessa will be attending Centre College and playing both women’s soccer and basketball. She intends to major in business or finance.
Like Justin, I sing (but let me tell you, I have never been asked to sing the National Anthem for my high school). Even though I know I'm horrible at it, I am not afraid to be my true self and show my true colors. When you're open, genuine, and authentic around others, it is how you build true, lasting, and deep relationships. It is so important to be goofy, carefree and to let your true self shine. Like Justin, I am never afraid to show my silly side. From what I have learned, Justin is a genuine, hardworking, inspiring person, and it has been so good to learn about him and his 12 legacies. He sure inspired me, and I bet if I had run into him in college, we would have been fast friends.”