Galesburg and United Student-Athletes Named to IHSA All-State Academic Team

Lily Furrow and Aiden Martin earn Honorable Mention honors for excellence in academics, athletics, and citizenship

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Two area high school students, Lily Furrow of Galesburg High School and Aiden Martin of United High School, have been named to the 2026 IHSA All-State Academic Honorable Mention Team. The IHSA recognized 50 students statewide for their achievements in the classroom, on the playing field, and in their communities.

Why it matters

The IHSA All-State Academic Team honors well-rounded student-athletes who excel both academically and in extracurricular activities. This recognition highlights the dedication and hard work of Furrow and Martin, serving as an inspiration for other student-athletes in the region.

The details

To be nominated, students needed a minimum 3.50 GPA, participation in at least two IHSA sports or activities over the last two years, and a demonstration of outstanding citizenship. Furrow is a four-sport athlete at Galesburg, while Martin competes in three sports at United and is also active in FFA. Both have been recognized for their academic and athletic achievements throughout their high school careers.

  • The IHSA announced the 2026 All-State Academic Team and Honorable Mention recipients on February 19, 2026.
  • Furrow and Martin will be recognized at a banquet in Bloomington on April 12, 2026.

The players

Lily Furrow

A four-year participant in swimming, basketball, and track at Galesburg High School. She is a member of the National Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society, and is involved in Project Graduation and FCA.

Aiden Martin

A three-sport athlete at United High School, competing in golf, baseball, and basketball. He is an active member of FFA and has achieved honors in FFA competitions.

Stacy Lambert

IHSA Assistant Executive Director, who stated that the All-State Academic Team honorees 'embody what education-based athletics and activities are all about.'

Nick Young

Galesburg High School Athletic Director, who praised Furrow's drive, passion, and excellence as a student-athlete.

Ryan Molek

United High School Assistant Principal and Head Baseball Coach, who described Martin as a 'true Renaissance Man' among his peers.

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What they’re saying

“The students named to the IHSA All-State Academic Team embody what education-based athletics and activities are all about. They have challenged themselves in the classroom, committed to their teams and organizations, and found ways to give back to their schools and communities.”

— Stacy Lambert, IHSA Assistant Executive Director (wgil.com)

“I'm thrilled that Lily was named to the 2026 IHSA All-State Academic Honorable Mention Team. It's easy to see her drive and passion in the athletic arena, but this honor validates her ability to go above and beyond in the classroom too. She truly exemplifies what it means to be a Silver Streak student-athlete and do it with excellence.”

— Nick Young, Galesburg High School Athletic Director (wgil.com)

“Aiden Martin has established himself as a true Renaissance Man amongst his peers and fellow classmates. Academically, Aiden is highly motivated and disciplined. He challenges himself with rigorous coursework and approaches his studies with focus, curiosity, and a strong work ethic.”

— Ryan Molek, United High School Assistant Principal and Head Baseball Coach (wgil.com)

What’s next

Furrow and Martin will be recognized for their achievements at the IHSA All-State Academic Team banquet in Bloomington on April 12, 2026.

The takeaway

The selection of Lily Furrow and Aiden Martin to the IHSA All-State Academic Honorable Mention Team showcases the exceptional talent and dedication of student-athletes in the Galesburg and Monmouth communities. Their accomplishments inspire others to strive for excellence both in the classroom and on the playing field.