Bryan College Athletics has named senior men’s basketball player Nick Chambless and senior track and field and cross country athlete Kennedy Groves as the

Bryan College Athletics has named senior men’s basketball player Nick Chambless and senior track and field and cross country athlete Kennedy Groves as the 2026 recipients of the Lion of Valor Award. The award is the highest athletic honor presented by the Bryan College Department of Athletics.The annual honor recognizes one male and one female student-athlete each year. Recipients must demonstrate athletic excellence, Christ-like character, leadership, faith, and service.An Award Centered on Faith and CharacterThe Lion of Valor Award is inspired by I Chronicles 12:8. The passage describes “mighty men of valor” whose “faces were like the faces of lions.” The award reflects Bryan College Athletics’ commitment to developing student-athletes who compete with strength, integrity, humility, and faith.Bryan College athletics staff members select the recipients each year. Coaches consider more than athletic performance. They also look for athletes who encourage others, serve selflessly, and build strong relationships within the Bryan community.This year’s recipients demonstrated those qualities throughout their time at Bryan College.Nick Chambless — Men’s BasketballNick Chambless served as a leader for the Bryan College men’s basketball program throughout his collegiate career.Chambless made important contributions on the court. He also became known for his servant leadership away from competition. Teammates and coaches often described him as a steady encourager and a selfless teammate.His investment in others helped shape the culture of the program. Coaches recognized his commitment to faith, teamwork, and relationships.The award honors not only his athletic contributions, but also the Christ-like character he displayed during his time as a Bryan Lion.Kennedy Groves — Track and Field and Cross CountryKennedy Groves earned this year’s Lion of Valor Award after competing in both track and field and cross country.As a multi-sport athlete, Groves demonstrated dedication, discipline, and perseverance. She competed in two demanding sports during her career at Bryan College.Coaches and teammates recognized Groves for her encouragement and positivity. She consistently supported teammates during difficult moments and competed with humility and purpose.Her selection reflects the impact she made within Bryan College Athletics. It also highlights the example she set for others through her leadership and faith.A Reflection of the Bryan College Athletics MissionThe Lion of Valor Award highlights the mission of Bryan College Athletics. The department seeks to develop student-athletes who pursue excellence while living out their faith.Nick Chambless and Kennedy Groves each modeled leadership, character, and service throughout their collegiate careers. Their influence reached beyond competition and into the Bryan College community.Congratulations to both recipients on this well-deserved honor. The post Groves and Chambless Named 2026 Lions of Valor appeared first on Bryan College | Dayton, TN.