Montague alum and former Wildcat standout Drew Collins has earned one of the most respected honors in NCAA Division II football, being named the 2025 recipient of the GLIAC Jack H. McAvoy Award. The award recognizes a football player who exemplifies outstanding character, leadership, academic excellence, and community impact, and for those who watched Collins rise through the Montague program, the recognition comes as no surprise.
Before becoming a senior captain at Michigan Tech, Collins left an indelible mark on Montague High School as a multisport athlete. He helped lead the Wildcats and unforgettable 2020 Division 6 state title, where he starred at quarterback and etched his name into program history. His combination of poise, athleticism, and competitive maturity helped cement Montague as one of West Michigan’s premier football programs during his run. That same leadership translated seamlessly to his collegiate career.
Tech head coach Dan Mettlach praised Collins’ impact on the Huskies both on and off the field. “There is nobody more deserving than Drew to win this award,” Mettlach said. “Drew has done an incredible job since the day he stepped on campus raising the standard of what it means to be a part of our program.”
Collins embraced that responsibility. Along with becoming a trusted team captain, he spearheaded community service efforts, volunteered in local projects throughout Houghton, and led team Bible studies. His peers validated his influence by selecting him to the Huskies’ Leadership Council for five consecutive years.
A Steady and Reliable Force on the Field
Across 37 career games, Collins compiled 10 touchdowns and 269 all-purpose yards, including a career-best four touchdowns during the 2025 season. His consistency earned him two All-GLIAC honorable mention honors, underscoring his value to the Huskies’ offense and special teams.
Excellence in the Classroom
A standout student-athlete, Collins is a three-time GLIAC Academic Excellence Team selection. He completed his Sports and Fitness Management degree in spring 2025 and is on pace to receive his MBA in 2026, balancing rigorous academics with the demands of collegiate football.
Joining an Elite Group
Collins becomes the fourth Michigan Tech player ever to receive the McAvoy Award, joining Sam Kinne (2023), Alex Kowalski (2000), and Eric Tree (1997). For Montague supporters, it is yet another reason to take pride in a homegrown leader whose character continues to shine at every level.
From state championships with the Wildcats to academic and athletic leadership with the Huskies, Drew Collins has consistently elevated every team and community he has been part of. This award simply confirms what Montague and Michigan Tech have long known: Drew Collins is a model of integrity, commitment, and excellence.
