Elaine Grant of women's golf has been named the Jimmy John's Athlete of the Month for October, marking her second time receiving the honor in 2024. Grant's October performances included a tournament scoring average of 75.8 strokes per round across three events. 



Grant tied the UIS Women's Golf single-round record with a 69 at the Kentucky Wesleyan Invitational, where she placed third individually. She also posted a strong fifth-place finish at the Lewis Flyers Fall Intercollegiate, helping the Prairie Stars place in the top half of the field at both tournaments. Her accomplishments on the course earned her GLVC Player of the Week recognition after the Kentucky Wesleyan tournament. 

Elaine currently ranks 22nd in the NCAA DII East Region and 127th nationally, making her one of the top GLVC golfers. Her achievements not only highlight her individual dedication and talent but also contribute significantly to the success of UIS Women's Golf. As just the second Prairie Star to receive the Jimmy John's Athlete of the Month honor twice, Grant continues to set a high standard for excellence in UIS athletics.

Grant previously earned this award in April after securing three top-10 finishes, including a third-place finish at the GLVC Championships, which earned her a spot on the GLVC First Team.

Jimmy John's Athlete of the Month honorees from the 2024-25 year will be recognized at the annual Night of Stars banquet at the end of the spring semester. All honorees will also be considered for UIS Male Athlete of the Year and UIS Female Athlete of the Year awards at the conclusion of the current year of competition. 

October 2024 Nominees
Elaine Grant, Women's Golf
Jake Baldin, Men's Golf
Joey Fitzgerald, Men's Soccer
Kevin Herrera, Men's Soccer
Katelynn Ward, Women's Soccer
Brooke Biffar, Women's Soccer
Allison Mirimanian, Women's Soccer
Makenna Cox, Volleyball
Erica Sledge, Volleyball
Isaac Cortes, Men's Cross Country
Dom Cantarini, Men's Cross Country
Daniel Giacomini, Men's Cross Country
Madelyn Miller, Women's Cross Country

Past Winners