2024-25 Independent Bank Athletes of the Year

Congratulations to Henry Castle and Ella Udell who have been named the 2024-25 Independent Bank Student-Athletes of the Year. They were honored during the Senior Scholarships and Awards Night held on Tuesday, May 20th at the Ionia Movie Theatre.

This prestigious award, presented annually for over 25 years, recognizes seniors who excel in leadership, academics, and athletics. As part of the recognition, Independent Bank awarded each recipient a $1,000 scholarship to support their future educational endeavors.

Male Athlete of the Year: Henry Castle

Parents: Michelle and Matthew Castle

College: University of Michigan

Major: Computer Engineering

Sports: Football, Basketball, and Track all 4 years.  Has earned the Block I Award.  All-Conference Honors in Football and Track and Field. 2025 State Qualifier in Track and Field. 

Academics: 2025 CAAC Senior Scholar-Athlete Award, CAAC Scholar-Athlete, IHS Scholar-Athlete, and IHS Bulldog Scholar.

Leadership: IHS National Honor Society, Technology Committee, Principal Advisory Committee, Vice President of the Superintendent's Advisory Committee.

Female Athlete of the Year: Ella Udell

Parents: Joel and Jenny Udell

College: MCC to MSU

Major: Sociology and Economics

Sports: Volleyball (1 yr)/Swim (3 yrs), Dance (1 yr)/Powerlifting (3 yrs), and Track and Field (3 yrs).  Has earned the Block I Award.  All-Conference Honors in Swimming and 2025 State Qualifier. 

Academics: Academic All-State Swimming, CAAC Scholar-Athlete, IHS Scholar athlete, and Bulldog Scholar.

Leadership: Leadership committee for Powerlifting - 2 years, Varsity Swim Captain - 1 year, Prom Committee, Bridges, Unified Sports, College Advisors, Volunteers with Middle School Swim and Middle School Track. 

Both Henry and Ella have represented their teams, school, families, and community with pride over the last 4 years.  They have made their teams and teammates better through their participation and are better for having participated.  We wish both of these Bulldogs good luck in all their future endeavors. 

Thank you to Independent Bank for their continued  support of our student-athletes.