As the snow settles on another thrilling AMSOIL Championship Snocross season, the series proudly celebrates the standout moments, teams, and individuals who made the 2024–2025 campaign unforgettable. From rising stars to seasoned pros, this year’s End of Year Awards recognize excellence on and off the track.
Impact Award: Jacob Yurk
After losing OEM support prior to the start of the season, Jacob Yurk became the embodiment of old-school grit and determination. Racing without the backing of a factory team, Yurk brought back a raw, independent energy to the sport, embracing the role of Snocross’ new everyman. He charged hard all season, earning individual round wins and three overall podiums, proving that resilience and heart still go a long way in this sport.
Fan Favorite: Cerissa Blessum (Pro Women)
Cerissa Blessum is a rising star in the Pro Women ranks and captured hearts this season with her talent, toughness, and fan-first mentality. She earned a hard-fought win in Duluth, claimed eight podiums, and still finished fourth overall despite missing the final round of the year. With her exceptional sportsmanship and the way she engages with fans like no other, it’s no surprise she was voted this year’s Fan Favorite.
Star of the Future: Tessa Naastad
Racing in both Stock 200 and Junior Girls 14-15 classes, Tessa Naastad stood out with her consistency, speed, and determination. She finished second overall in Stock 200, racking up seven podiums, including one win—a remarkable season that confirms she’s one to watch in the years ahead.
Event of the Year: Shakopee
Held at Canterbury Park, Shakopee is widely regarded as the Daytona 500 of Snocross—a crown jewel on the tour. Known for its world-class indoor seating and massive big-air track, the venue offers an unrivaled atmosphere for fans and racers alike. This year’s event once again delivered action-packed racing and a festival-like experience that made it a clear standout on the calendar.
Most Improved Racer: Zak Farmer (Sport)
After finishing 11th in points last season, Zak Farmer turned heads in 2024–2025 with an incredible leap forward in the Sport class. He secured eight podium finishes, including major wins at the Ironwood opener and Deadwood, establishing himself as a top competitor and a future threat in the upper classes.
Mechanic of the Year: Brian Strawsell – Kyllo Racing
As Jacob Yurk’s mechanic, Brian Strawsell was instrumental in keeping the program alive and competitive. Operating on a limited budget, Strawsell embodied the “duct tape and bailing wire” philosophy—doing more with less and keeping both Yurk and the Kyllo Race Team running strong through every challenge the season threw their way.
Rookie of the Year: Cameron Cole (Pro Lite)
Riding for Cottew Motorsports, Cameron Cole delivered a breakout season that gained momentum with each round. After steadily improving early on, Cole turned heads with his first career win in Eagle River, then shocked the field by sweeping the weekend and earning his third straight victory at the Duluth opener. With top contenders Crayden Dillon and Anson Scheele moving up to the Pro class, Cole enters next season as an early favorite for the Pro Lite championship.
Team of the Year: Kyllo Race Team
The Kyllo Race Team epitomized what grassroots Snocross is all about—hard work, heart, and hustle. With Jacob Yurk leading the charge on the track and Brian Strawsell turning wrenches behind the scenes, the team delivered strong results despite operating on a tight budget. But it wasn’t just performance that earned them Team of the Year—it was their dedication to supporting all levels of racing, their presence in the pits, and their unmatched connection with fans that truly set them apart. Kyllo Racing showed up, stood out, and made the Snocross community stronger.
Employee of the Year: Rod Skorich
Affectionately known as “Papa Rod,” Rod Skorich has been a fixture in Snocross and the snowmobile industry for decades. As the voice of the amateur classes, his familiar tone and deep knowledge have been part of countless rider journeys. Whether announcing, assisting behind the scenes, or jumping in wherever help is needed, no job is too big or too small for Rod. His commitment to the sport, the athletes, and the community makes him a true cornerstone of the series.
As AMSOIL Championship Snocross looks ahead to another exhilarating season, we extend a heartfelt congratulations to all of this year’s honorees. Their passion and perseverance continue to push the sport to new heights.About ISOC: The International Series of Champions (ISOC), headquartered in Albertville, Minnesota, owns and operates both AMSOIL Championship Off-Road and AMSOIL Championship Snocross. ISOC is dedicated to delivering premier racing events that captivate motorsport enthusiasts across the nation. For detailed information about events, schedules, and updates, visit www.champoffroad.com or www.snocross.com.