Grand View's Anna Gossling Named Heart Dr. LeRoy Walker Champions of Character Award Nominee

Named in honor of the former NAIA and U.S. Olympic Committee president, the Dr. LeRoy Walker Award recognizes outstanding student-athletes for their academics, athletics, leadership, and dedication to living the core values of Champions of Character®. This award was created in association with the National Sports Foundation.

Few student-athletes have left a more complete legacy at Grand View than Anna Gossling. A psychology and English double major with a 3.99 cumulative GPA, Gossling excelled academically while becoming one of the most decorated players in program history. A two-time Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athlete, three-time First Team All-Conference selection, two-time All-Defensive Team honoree, and team captain, she helped lead the Vikings to four consecutive NAIA National Tournament appearances while finishing her career with 1,867 points, 445 rebounds, and 247 assists. Her relentless work ethic, competitive spirit, and commitment to excellence established her as one of the premier student-athletes in the Heart Conference.

Gossling's impact extended well beyond basketball through servant leadership, mentorship, and community engagement. Whether volunteering with youth basketball programs, Meals from the Heartland, the Special Olympics, or other community service initiatives, she consistently invested in those around her. As a captain and mentor, Gossling earned the respect of teammates, coaches, and her community by leading with integrity, encouraging others to succeed, and leaving a lasting legacy within the Grand View women's basketball program. Her commitment to the NAIA Champions of Character core values makes her a fitting recipient of the Dr. LeRoy Walker Champions of Character Award.

As the Heart of America Athletic Conference recipient, Anna Gossling will represent the conference as its nominee for the corresponding NAIA national award, with national recipients to be announced by the NAIA at a later date.

More information on NAIA Awards can be found here.