SEAN BOSTON
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson High School honored its top students and athletes during the annual Senior Awards Ceremony on Wednesday morning.
Athletic Director Steve Kappenman presented the Outstanding Male Athlete of the Year award to Kade Smith, while Grace Posch received the Outstanding Female Athlete of the Year honor.
Kade Smith
Smith, who has signed to continue his academic and football career at Hutchinson Community College, capped off an exceptional senior year in both football and wrestling.
On the gridiron, Smith rushed for 1,878 yards and 18 touchdowns, averaging nearly nine yards per carry. He recorded nine games with over 100 rushing yards, including a career-high 245 yards on 24 attempts against Liberal.
In wrestling, Smith concluded his career tied with Romero Cotton for the most wins in program history with 136. He earned a third-place finish at the Class 5A state tournament on March 1 in Park City.
Grace Posch
Posch is headed to Seward County Community College to play basketball and pursue her academic goals. She was a multi-sport standout for the Salthawks, excelling in both basketball and volleyball.
On the basketball court, Posch scored 968 career points. She shot 35% from three-point range and 80% from the free-throw line during her senior season, averaging 12 points per game—second on the team behind Kaia Smith. She topped 20 points in three games, including a season-high 22 against Salina South.
In volleyball, Posch was an honorable mention selection on the all-league team in 2024 and was a four-year varsity letterwinner.