Heidi (Jeltema) Altena Christian Women's Award

Northwestern College Athletics

The Carl Ver Steeg family, whose daughter is Mary Ver Steeg, established the Christian Women's Award in 1982. Mary was instrumental in the development of varsity women's sports programs at Northwestern College. She coached women's basketball for six years and volleyball for four years. In 2006, the name of the award was changed to the Heidi (Jeltema) Altena Christian Woman Athlete Award in memory of Heidi, who demonstrated a sincere Christian faith and servant heart as well as being an outstanding athlete.

The winner of this award must demonstrate a lifestyle and conduct that reflects her faith and commitment to Jesus Christ while participating in athletics. She must also demonstrate qualities of leadership on and off the court or field.

Since 1982 the following individuals have been honored with this award:

Year	Recipient
1976	Brenda Meyer
1977	Lori Hoffman
1978	Chris Yount
1979	Margie Peters
1980	Cindy Tigges
1981	Sharla Hulstein
1982	Laura Haverdink
1983	Peg Christensen
1984	Carolyn Blair
1985	Annette Garcia
1986	Linda Brundeen
1987	Barb Stubbs
1988	Karmen Woelber
1989	Jane Van Klompenburg
1990	Robin Pals
1991	Robin Pals
1992	Laura Bleeker
1993	Lori Zomermaand
1994	Jody Rossell
1995	Suzanne Riche
1996	Val Garner
1997	Julie Schuiteman
1998	Sheri Storms
1999	Manda Nelson
2000	Jackie Olson
2001	Kara Christoffer
2002	Anna Teigland
2003	Jessica Ortman
2004	Kelli Vermeer
2005	Carrie Stromley
2006	Megan Rich
2007	Liz Reynen
2008	Amy Larson
2009	Krista Hibma
2010	Delainye (Hardersen) Woudstra
2011	Sara Hess
	Bobbie Jean Rich
2012	Val Kleinjan
2013	Keely Bracelin
2014	Mackenzie Small
2015	Karen (Hutson) Ettleman
2016	Abby Stevens
	Haley Chambers
2017	Katie Bosch
2018	Kassidy De Jong
2019	Kassidy De Jong
2020	Bre Harthoorn
2021	Emily Bosch
2022	Jadeyn Schutt (Volleyball)
2023	Jadeyn Schutt (Volleyball)
2024	Grace Dahl (Women's Soccer)
2025	Savonne Sterk (Volleyball/Track & Field)