Gabe Funk Named South Central Iowa Athlete of the Year Today
UPDATE: Gabe Funk, a standout senior from Lenox High School, has just been named the 2025 South Central Iowa Athlete of the Year by three regional newspapers, including the Creston News Advertiser. This prestigious honor highlights Funk’s exceptional contributions across four sports, solidifying his legacy in a community known for its rich athletic tradition.
Funk’s accomplishments are staggering. With a remarkable record in football, basketball, track and field, and baseball, he has captured multiple individual state championships and is projected to continue his athletic career at the University of Northern Iowa in track and field. “When Spencer was back in April, we talked in the hallway,” Funk said, referencing NFL player Spencer Brown. “He was pretty pumped that I was going to UNI, too. He said to enjoy it. It was a lot of fun for him.”
Funk’s athletic prowess is backed by impressive statistics. This summer, he concluded his baseball career with a stunning .427 batting average and a perfect record of 56 stolen bases in as many attempts, leading not just Class 1A but the entire state. His versatility extends to the football field, where he led his team to the state semifinals twice, showcasing his skills as both a quarterback and a defensive back.
As a player, Funk has racked up 40 wins against only five losses in his high school football career, marking a record that speaks volumes. His senior season saw him complete 64 of 101 passes for 1,319 yards and 19 touchdowns, while also rushing for an impressive 1,250 yards and 29 touchdowns. “Gabe’s passing ability was underrated,” said Michael Nardini, Funk’s football coach. “We were able to throw downfield with him, and teams had to honor him as a runner.”
On the basketball court, Funk shattered the school’s all-time scoring record with 1,645 points, a feat that reflects his relentless dedication and skill. He led the Tigers in scoring, rebounding, steals, and assists, averaging 22.4 points per game during his final year. “To lead a team in all of those statistics, it’s insane,” said Lenox boys basketball coach Michael West.
In track and field, Funk’s achievements are unparalleled. He is a five-time state champion and holds numerous school records, including a time of 14.20 seconds in the 110-meter hurdles, achieved at the 2025 state meet. “Gabe’s best days in track are still ahead of him,” Nardini remarked, highlighting his potential to excel even further at the collegiate level.
Funk’s contributions extend beyond the field; he is also the valedictorian of his class, maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA. “You do it for your friends. You do one sport to help them out, and they’ll do one for you,” Funk said, emphasizing the small-town pride and loyalty that drives him.
Looking ahead, Funk plans to major in accounting and business management at UNI, while also seeking to improve his track performance. “I think I have a lot of room for improvement,” he noted, aware of the competitive landscape he will face at the collegiate level.
As Gabe Funk begins this new chapter at UNI, his achievements serve as an inspiration for aspiring athletes in Lenox and beyond. His legacy is not just about the records he set, but the community spirit and determination he embodies. With a bright future ahead, Funk is poised to make an even greater impact in the world of athletics.
Stay tuned for more updates on the extraordinary journey of this remarkable athlete.
