Shawna Bruha named this year’s top female athlete at Burnsville High School

Senior Shawna Bruha received the 2023 Athena Award, which recognizes outstanding high school female student-athletes for their athletic accomplishments. The Athena Award, named for the Greek goddess of wisdom and skills, is based on excellence in individual sports or for participation and accomplishments in team sports.

Shawna is a two-sport athlete – tennis and basketball – with a total of 8 varsity letters, including five letters in basketball and three in tennis. She was named “MVP” this year for basketball.    

Additionally, Shawna was a part of the first doubles team in Burnsville girls tennis history to qualify for the state tournament. 

“Shawna is a talented athlete, but her work ethic, leadership, intelligence, humility, and team-first mentality elevate her to a much higher level than her talent alone,” said tennis coach Ryan Haddorff. “Shawna is very deserving of this award.”  

Dave Shaw, head basketball coach, added, "Shawna leads by example and does not make excuses."

With a 3.9 GPA, Shawna is blazing a trail in the classroom. She is a part of the National Honors Society and has earned Academic All-State honors in both sports.

In addition to her numerous athletic and academic accolades, Shawna is an avid volunteer in her community, a BurnsvilleStrong member and Link Crew leader. 

Next fall, Shawna is headed to Minot State University on a basketball scholarship and plans to major in nursing.

“Shawna is a tremendous student-athlete and highly deserving of the Athena Award for Burnsville High School,” said Athletics Director Kevin Kleiner. “Shawna's passion, commitment and leadership shine through on and off the tennis and basketball courts. We are extremely proud of Shawna and wish her all the best!”  

Shawna will receive her award at an awards luncheon on Friday, May 5 at the Earle Brown Heritage Center.