Elms College 2025 graduate Katie Cosmos, a member of the softball team, has been named one of three finalists from across the country for this award recognizing female athletes for grit, tenacity, and overcoming adversity.
The Honda Inspiration Award recognizes a female collegiate student-athlete who has faced significant physical or emotional obstacles to return to their chosen sport. The Honda Inspiration Award has been awarded each year across NCAA Divisions I, II, and III for 37 years.
Katie and the other two finalists were interviewed by CBS Sports Network for a special feature, titled “Defying the Odds: The 2025 Honda Inspiration Award” which is scheduled to air on Sunday, June 23 at 6 p.m. ET. The winner will be selected in June and her story will be celebrated in a live telecast of The Collegiate Women Sports Awards presented by Honda on CBS Sports Network on Monday, June 30, 2025 at 7 p.m. ET.
Katie, of Wolcott, CT, recently graduated from Elms College with a bachelor’s degree in Nursing. Katie faced immense adversity during her softball career at Elms with two season-ending ACL tears during both her freshman and junior years. At home, within a short period of time, she dealt with the loss of her mother, who she cared for during a severe illness as well as the loss of her two grandparents.
Amidst these challenges, Katie remained focused in the classroom and on returning to the field. She ended her senior year with a 3.98 GPA, was the recipient of the Nursing Academic Achievement award for the highest GPA in her program, and had a .361 average this season.
Katie reflected on this recognition saying, “It is truly an honor to be a finalist for such a prestigious award. I am incredibly grateful for the recognition and opportunity to be considered alongside two remarkable female athletes. I would like to thank everyone who has supported me throughout this journey.”
Bre Marcyoniak, Associate Athletic Director and Head Softball Coach said, “Katie’s story is truly special and embodies what inspiration means. I’m proud that she is being recognized for her resilience and determination.”
