BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Colgate women's basketball senior forward Sophia Diehl has earned the Patriot League Award of Outstanding Leadership and Character as she closes out her collegiate chapter in Hamilton. 

Diehl is now one of four Raiders to receive this award and the first in women's basketball program history. The last time a female Raider received this award was back in 2018-19 when Regine Cooper earned it for the Colgate women's track and field program. To qualify, candidates must demonstrate excellence in leadership and service while participating in Patriot League athletics. 

"I'm extremely humbled to receive this award and believe that awards should not be given to just an individual," said Diehl with gratitude. "Success in life is never achieved alone. There were many people who played a part in my story at Colgate. It's the people that make a place." 

Leading by example, Diehl was named captain for the 2024-25 season. The senior started in all 33 games last season, recording 955 minutes played, the second most on the team. The Maryland native led the team in three categories: 3-pointers (46), defensive rebounds (145), and blocks (14). Using her height to her advantage, Diehl finished eighth in the conference in rebounds with 191, averaging 5.8 per game. Capping off her collegiate career in the record books, Diehl ranks eighth all-time in rebounding with 628.

"Although I did not have the opportunity to coach Sophia, it is clear in getting to know her that her dedication to excellence on the court, in the classroom & her commitment to service are reflections of who she is," said head coach Shannon Bush. 

Off the court, Diehl remained committed to creating a lasting impact in the community. On a weekly basis, the senior helped serve individuals at a soup kitchen in Utica. Monthly, she volunteered at the local church. In addition to these efforts, she made her mark by volunteering at Hamilton Central, Colgate events to welcome students back, and the local 5K. She rounded out her generosity aiding with check-ins for a Through Action Event (TIA). Diehl helped in a plethora of areas to help encapsulate the image of a well-rounded student athlete. 

"She has set the bar extremely high for our program, her teammates, & all of the future Colgate Women's Basketball players that will strive to follow her example," Bush praised. "Sophia is an elite example of what it means to live the most of the holistic student athlete experience that Colgate University provides. I have no doubt that Sophia will go on to continue to lead & serve others in everything she does in this next phase of her life."