Lynn Braden State Farm / WMCL Fox of the Week
Ethan Kessler – Senior – Hamilton County Foxes Basketball
Senior leader Ethan Kessler has been named this week’s Lynn Braden State Farm / WMCL Fox of the Week after earning one of the most prestigious honors at the Benton Invitational Tournament.
Kessler was presented with the Bob Blondi Sr. Sportsmanship Award, an honor that has been awarded annually throughout the storied history of the tournament. The award recognizes the player who best exemplifies outstanding sportsmanship during the event. Robert Dee Blondi, Sr. dedicated more than 50 years officiating high school and collegiate athletics across Illinois, and the award is traditionally presented by longtime official Bob Blondi, Jr. and the Blondi family.
In addition to receiving the sportsmanship honor, Kessler helped lead the Foxes to a strong third-place finish in the tournament. Hamilton County secured the third-place trophy with a 47-45 victory over Flora in a makeup game played Saturday, January 31. Kessler, along with teammate Laban Dial, was also named to the Benton Invitational Tournament All-Tournament Team.
The Foxes opened tournament play with an impressive 57-30 win over Vandalia before falling to Carterville in the semifinals, 60-38. Despite the setback, Hamilton County regrouped and finished the tournament on a winning note following weather delays caused by Winter Storm Fern.
The Blondi Sportsmanship Award is widely regarded as one of the most respected recognitions awarded during the Benton Invitational Tournament, highlighting not only athletic performance but character, leadership, and respect for the game — qualities that Kessler consistently demonstrates.
Congratulations to Ethan Kessler, this week’s Lynn Braden State Farm / WMCL Fox of the Week!
Photo Credit: Christopher Kays, ShutterSnap Photo
The Robert Dee Blondi, Sr. Sportsmanship Award has been warded aevery year of the Benton Invitational Tournament and is earned by a player who exemplifies the best sportsmanship characteristics throughout the tournament. Robert Blondi, Sr., was an official for over 50 years working multiple sports in college and high school all over the state. The award is typically handed out by longtime official Bob Blondi, Jr., as well as his family.