Mount St. Mary's flag football program has been recognized by Conference Carolinas with the 2025‑26 Spring Team Messick Sportsmanship Award, a distinction that celebrates exemplary conduct on and off the field.
Honoring a Legacy of Sportsmanship
The honor is determined by a vote among student‑athletes and coaches from each member institution, ensuring that the award reflects the perspectives of those who compete alongside the players each week.
Named for John D. Messick, the former president of East Carolina who authored a seminal work on sportsmanship, the prize ties the current recognition to a long‑standing commitment to integrity within the conference.
Although the Mount’s debut season concluded with a 9‑16 record, the team’s effort to embody the principles championed by Messick resonated with voters across the league.
Conference Carolinas officials praised the collective spirit that led to the award, noting that the acknowledgment underscores the growing emphasis on character development alongside athletic competition.
As the program looks ahead, the accolade serves as both a milestone and a motivator, encouraging the Mount and its peers to continue building a culture where sportsmanship is as valued as skill.