Bronson Sullivan, Zach Brangers, Sara Zawadzki, Julia Durant, and Marc Shewmaker Earn Keightley Assist Award Honors at 2025 Catspy Awards
The 2025 Catspy Awards, held at the Central Bank Center in Lexington, Kentucky, celebrated the outstanding achievements of University of Kentucky student-athletes during the 2024-25 academic year. Among the most prestigious accolades presented was the Bill Keightley Assist Award, which honors individuals who have demonstrated exceptional support and dedication to their teams. This year, five exemplary Wildcats—Bronson Sullivan, Zach Brangers, Sara Zawadzki, Julia Durant, and Marc Shewmaker—were bestowed with this esteemed recognition. (KSR Today: Alvin Brooks III, Peny Boone, and the CATSPY Awards)
Bronson Sullivan’s unwavering commitment to the University of Kentucky Men’s Basketball team has been nothing short of remarkable. Serving as a student manager, Sullivan’s responsibilities extended beyond administrative tasks; he was integral to the team’s daily operations, ensuring that equipment was prepared, practice sessions ran smoothly, and players had the necessary resources to excel. His behind-the-scenes contributions were vital in maintaining the team’s high performance throughout the season.
Sullivan’s dedication was particularly evident during critical moments. In the lead-up to pivotal games, he often stayed late to assist coaching staff with strategy sessions and video analyses. His ability to anticipate the needs of the coaching staff and players showcased his deep understanding of the game and his commitment to the team’s success. Sullivan’s efforts were instrumental in fostering a cohesive and well-prepared team, earning him the Bill Keightley Assist Award as a testament to his exceptional support.
In the realm of collegiate baseball, Zach Brangers distinguished himself as an invaluable asset to the Kentucky Wildcats Baseball team. As a student manager, Brangers took on a myriad of responsibilities, from coordinating travel arrangements to managing equipment logistics. His meticulous attention to detail ensured that the team was always prepared, regardless of the challenges they faced.
Brangers’ contributions extended beyond organizational tasks. He played a pivotal role in maintaining team morale, often serving as a liaison between players and coaching staff. His positive attitude and strong work ethic were infectious, motivating those around him to strive for excellence. Brangers’ behind-the-scenes efforts were crucial in the team’s successful season, earning him the Bill Keightley Assist Award in recognition of his outstanding support and dedication.
Sara Zawadzki’s journey with the University of Kentucky Women’s Soccer team exemplifies the essence of the Bill Keightley Assist Award. As a student manager, Zawadzki was instrumental in the daily operations of the team, handling logistics, equipment, and administrative tasks with precision and dedication. Her organizational skills ensured that the team was always prepared, allowing players and coaches to focus on performance and strategy.
Beyond her logistical contributions, Zawadzki’s interpersonal skills shone brightly. She built strong relationships with players and coaching staff, fostering a positive and cohesive team environment. Her ability to anticipate the needs of others and her proactive approach to problem-solving made her an indispensable member of the team. Zawadzki’s unwavering commitment and exceptional support were pivotal to the team’s success, earning her the Bill Keightley Assist Award. (2024 CATSPY Awards Presented | Your Sports Edge 2021, Tuesday Headlines: CATSPY Awards Edition – A Sea Of Blue)
Julia Durant’s role as a student manager for the University of Kentucky Gymnastics team was characterized by her unwavering dedication and exceptional organizational skills. She managed the intricacies of travel arrangements, equipment maintenance, and event coordination, ensuring that the team had everything they needed to perform at their best. Her behind-the-scenes efforts were crucial in maintaining the smooth operation of the team, allowing athletes and coaches to concentrate on training and competition. (Tuesday Headlines: CATSPY Awards Edition – A Sea Of Blue)
Durant’s contributions went beyond logistical support. She served as a confidante and motivator for the gymnasts, offering encouragement and assistance during challenging times. Her positive attitude and strong work ethic inspired those around her, fostering a sense of unity and determination within the team. Durant’s exceptional support and dedication were instrumental in the team’s achievements, earning her the Bill Keightley Assist Award.
Marc Shewmaker’s dedication to the University of Kentucky Track and Field team was evident in his meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to excellence. As a student manager, Shewmaker was responsible for coordinating logistics, managing equipment, and assisting with event operations. His organizational skills ensured that the team was always prepared, regardless of the circumstances.
Shewmaker’s contributions extended beyond his administrative duties. He played a pivotal role in maintaining team morale, often serving as a source of motivation and support for athletes. His positive attitude and strong work ethic were contagious, inspiring those around him to give their best effort. Shewmaker’s behind-the-scenes efforts were instrumental in the team’s success, earning him the Bill Keightley Assist Award in recognition of his exceptional support and dedication.
The Bill Keightley Assist Award, named in honor of the late Bill Keightley, the University of Kentucky’s long-time equipment manager, recognizes individuals who provide exceptional support to their teams. Keightley’s legacy is characterized by his dedication, humility, and unwavering commitment to the Wildcats, qualities that these five recipients embody.
Sullivan, Brangers, Zawadzki, Durant, and Shewmaker have each demonstrated a profound dedication to their respective teams, often working behind the scenes without seeking recognition. Their contributions have been instrumental in the success of their teams, and their receipt of the Bill Keightley Assist Award underscores the importance of support roles in collegiate athletics. (KSR Today: Alvin Brooks III, Peny Boone, and the CATSPY Awards)
As the University of Kentucky continues to build upon its rich athletic tradition, the contributions of individuals like Sullivan, Brangers, Zawadzki, Durant, and Shewmaker serve as a reminder of the vital roles that support staff
