SELINSGROVE, PA - Susquehanna women's basketball's Julia Roth has been named a Kay Yow Servant Leader for the 2025-2026 season. Roth is one of just 61 athletes nationwide to receive this distinguished honor. As part of this recognition, Roth will wear a patch on her jersey all season recognizing her as a Kay Yow Servant. 

"Julia is truly worthy of the Kay Yow Servant Leader Award because she exemplifies the values that Coach Yow stood for," said head coach Gabby Holko. "Julia has faced significant adversity, tearing her ACL twice. Instead of allowing this setback to define her, she demonstrated remarkable resolve by staying committed to being the best teammate and leader she could possibly be. She continued to serve and support her program with grace, embodying the spirit of selflessness by putting her teammates' needs before her own. Julia has been a tremendous role model within our community, especially through our youth camps, where she is continuously giving back. She shows up with enthusiasm and a genuine smile, inspiring so many young girls who may fall in love with basketball because of her. Her perseverance, compassion, and unwavering dedication to her team and community reflect the legacy of service, selflessness, and love that this award was created to honor."

"This is amazing and I am so honored," said Roth. "Coach told me I am the first in SU women's basketball history and Susquehanna history to receive this, which is absolutely insane to me because there are so many people through my four years here that I have looked up to as amazing leaders."

The Kay Yow Servant Leader Award celebrates the enduring legacy of Coach Kay Yow, who bravely battled breast cancer for 22 years while inspiring others to create positive change. Presented annually, the award recognizes student-athletes who exemplify Yow's core values of servant leadership, selflessness, and unwavering commitment both on and off the court.

Recipients are individuals of remarkable character who selflessly prioritize others, embodying grace, humility, courage, and strength. Nominated by their coaches, these leaders reflect Coach Yow's spirit and dedication, making a meaningful impact in the fight against cancer by improving lives and offering hope.