A Tradition of Respect
The Great American Conference revealed its 2025‑26 Sportsmanship Awards, a program that honors teams across the league for embodying the NCAA Division II commitment to fair play and a positive game environment.
Coaches from member institutions cast the votes, ensuring that recognition reflects the perspectives of those who witness the on‑court and on‑field conduct of players, fans and staff.
SWOSU’s women’s golf program captured the award for the eighth time, underscoring a sustained dedication to sportsmanship over more than a decade.
The volleyball team earned the honor for the seventh occasion overall and for the sixth straight season, while the men’s basketball squad secured the award for the second time in the past three years.
The recognition builds on a tradition that began in 2012 when the GAC Student‑Athlete Advisory Committee launched a sportsmanship accolade for all team sports, aiming to foster good conduct among athletes, supporters and event participants.
GAC Commissioner Will Prewitt emphasized that these awards spotlight programs that compete with dignity and class, reinforcing the conference’s alignment with NCAA Division II values.
Beyond the highlighted teams, the complete list of 2025‑26 awardees spans a variety of sports and institutions, reflecting the league’s broad focus on exemplary behavior.