Celebrating Excellence: San José State’s 2025 Amateur Athletes of the Year
San José, California—As the San José Sports Hall of Fame prepares to honor its 2025 Amateur Athletes of the Year, anticipation builds for the ceremony set to take place on November 6 at the SAP Center. This year, the spotlight shines on two remarkable San José State graduates: Nick Nash and Emilia Sjöstrand. Their accolades and dedicated performances during the 2024-25 school year exemplify the spirit of achievement that the Hall of Fame embodies.
Nick Nash: A Trailblazer in Football
Nick Nash, a standout wide receiver for the San José State football team, has made history with his impressive achievements. Not only was he a finalist for the prestigious Bilentnikoff Award, but he also became a consensus All-American—marking him as the first player from San José State to earn this honor. Being named to various First Team All-America rosters, including those from AP, FWAA, and CBS Sports, underscores his outstanding performance on the field.
Some of Nash’s notable milestones include setting single-season records for the San José State football program. He recorded an astonishing 104 catches and 16 receiving touchdowns in a single season, showcasing his crucial role in the team’s success. Such achievements not only highlight his athletic prowess but also his commitment to excellence in collegiate sports.
Emilia Sjöstrand: A Star in Track and Field
On the track, Emilia Sjöstrand has established herself as a force to be reckoned with. Her accolades reflect a diverse skill set, particularly in the triple jump and long jump events. As a first team All-American in the outdoor triple jump, Sjöstrand demonstrated her capabilities on the national stage, finishing second at the 2025 NCAA Outdoor Championships.
In addition to her outdoor successes, her performance during the indoor season was also remarkable. She achieved second team All-America honors in both the triple jump and long jump. Furthermore, her commendable rankings at the 2025 NCAA Indoor Championships—placing ninth in the triple jump and twelfth in the long jump—reflect her consistency and dedication.
At the Mountain West Championships, Sjöstrand was not just a participant; she emerged victorious as the outdoor champion in the triple jump. Her performance earned her accolades such as the Women’s Field Performer of the Meet, along with strong showings in both the long jump and 4×100 relay.
Academic Excellence
Beyond their athletic accomplishments, both Nash and Sjöstrand exemplify academic excellence. Sjöstrand stands out as a San José State President’s Scholar and has earned recognition as a Mountain West Scholar Athlete, showcasing her ability to balance rigorous academic pursuits with high-level athletic performance. Such accolades highlight the importance of education and commitment in shaping well-rounded individuals.
A Celebration of Spartans
The recognition of Nick Nash and Emilia Sjöstrand at the San José Sports Hall of Fame is not just about individual achievements; it represents the collective spirit of San José State University and its commitment to fostering excellence in both athletics and academics. Their journeys inspire not only current athletes but also future generations who aspire to reach great heights in their respective fields.
As the ceremony approaches, excitement and pride fill the air for these remarkable Spartans, whose legacy at San José State continues to thrive.