Wiebe named Game One 'Game Changer of the Month' for May
WICHITA, Kan. — The Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC) and Commissioner Ted Breidenthal are pleased to announce Sterling College's Deb Wiebe as one of the three Game One "Game Changers of the Month" for the month of May.
The Game Changer of the Month recognition celebrates and highlights KCAC student-athletes and staff members in a wide variety of categories and is intended for those who fit the definition of a "Game Changer" in the eye of the athletic department and institution. Any KCAC student-athlete or staff member who fits their definition of a Game Changer is eligible to be nominated by an athletic staff member from any KCAC member institution. KCAC athletic staff are encouraged to identify and nominate Game Changers for consideration who are then reviewed and selected through a voting process. These individuals embody the spirit of the KCAC and have separated themselves by making a distinct and noticeable difference and impact on their campus, in the KCAC and beyond. This award celebrates individuals in the KCAC, in our athletic departments, and on our campuses for their impact. As described, this recognition is not restricted to statistics and objective measures.
Deb Wiebe
Sterling College
Assistant Athletic Director for Athletics Administration
Wiebe was nominated by Justin Morris, Athletic Director at Sterling College.
For 29 years, Wiebe has been more than just an administrator at Sterling —she has served as a guiding force, a mentor, and a steadfast supporter of many student-athletes who have walked through Sterling College Athletics' doors. Her impact consistently goes above and beyond to assist students with insurance concerns, personal challenges, and even the smallest day-to-day needs. Whether helping them find someone to talk to, a place to go, or simply offering an empathetic ear, her presence is a constant source of stability and encouragement.
Beyond her invaluable support for students, Deb is an indispensable leader in Sterling College's athletic department. Her contributions in organization, event planning, concessions management, and athletic department initiatives help ensure the seamless execution of athletic events and department operations. Whether coordinating special events or ensuring every detail is accounted for, Deb's meticulous attention to detail and dedication make a lasting impact at Sterling College.
"Deb's remarkable service, leadership, and steadfast commitment to Sterling College goes unmatched," Morris remarked. "She is a true game changer, making a difference in the lives of so many daily, and we are so blessed to have her in our department."
Angelina Froese
McPherson College
Executive Assistant to the Athletic Director
Froese was nominated by Josh Daume, Director of Athletics at McPherson College.
When nominating Froese, Daume highlighted Froese's involvement with community service, fundraising, and special event planning. Specifically in the month of May, she has supported the McPherson SALT (Student-Athlete Leadership Team) in the planning and execution of the college's Student-Athlete Gala, ensuring that they had everything they needed throughout the planning process. She has worked tirelessly in the planning of the athletic department's annual golf tournament and banquet. This fundraiser is crucial to the department's fundraising efforts.
She has been successful in generating sponsorships for the athletic department, making connections throughout the community and beyond. Further, she was a driving force behind the department's community service efforts throughout the year, which resulted in over 2000 hours of community service by McPherson student-athletes. She also planned weekly appearances for student-athletes at elementary schools, the local senior living community, and other charitable organizations.
"Angelina is a tremendous asset to our department and entire campus community," Daume stated. "As an alum, she takes great pride in representing McPherson College and making sure our student-athletes are supported in everything they do. She has gone above and beyond in everything we have asked of her, and our college is better because of what she does."
Mike Abasolo
Southwestern College
Assistant Athletic Director/Sports Information Director
Abasolo was nominated by Matt O'Brien, Director of Athletics and Men's Basketball Head Coach at Southwestern College.
While his contributions often happen behind the scenes, Abasolo's impact is unmistakable and far-reaching across campus. He was instrumental in implementing key facility upgrades at Jantz Stadium, including the installation of a new scoreboard and sound system. These enhancements have significantly elevated the game-day atmosphere and overall fan engagement.
Beyond infrastructure improvements, Abasolo was tasked to revitalize the student-focused JINX Awards, and with his leadership, turned them into a celebrated campus tradition that unites the Southwestern athletics community and highlights the incredible achievements of their students in a memorable, first-class manner.
"Mike Abasolo's behind-the-scenes dedication and selfless leadership have transformed the student-athlete experience at Southwestern College," O'Brien said. "From facility upgrades to meaningful celebrations of our community, Mike does it all without ever asking for recognition—because for him, it's always about lifting others. He's the ultimate team player and a true game changer."
KCAC Game Changers will also be recognized and celebrated at a designated event to be determined.
ABOUT GAME ONE
- Game One is one of the largest and fastest growing sports equipment and apparel suppliers in the country, serving a loyal customer base of more than 125 colleges, universities, and conferences nationwide.
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ABOUT THE KANSAS COLLEGIATE ATHLETIC CONFERENCE
The Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC) is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and sponsors 28 varsity sports. Founded in 1890, the KCAC is the second oldest intercollegiate athletic conference in the country. As the conference home to 14 member institutions, the KCAC emphasizes commitment, cooperation, high achievement, and working towards a common goal in the act of competition. To keep up with the latest conference news, follow the KCAC on Facebook, Twitter/X, and Instagram using the handle @kcacsports.
