(Gilbert, AZ) Park University Gilbert has been recognized as a Five-Star Gold Champions of Character by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) for the 2023-24 school year. The Buccaneers have been a member of the NAIA for four years and have earned this distinction in all four seasons with three gold and one silver award.
This prestigious award was given to 206 schools in the NAIA and Park Gilbert is one of 131 schools to receive the Gold Award, the highest award.
Institutions were measured on a demonstrated commitment to Champions of Character ideals and earned points in character training, conduct in competition, academic focus, character recognition and character promotion. Institutions earned points based on exceptional student-athlete grade point averages and by having minimal to no ejections during competition throughout the course of the academic year.
“I am very proud of our entire staff,” said Director of Athletics Angelique Claussen. “This award is earned behind the hard work of everyone in the athletic department from coaches to the student success staff. We have a great team here at Park Gilbert and we work hard to keep improving every year.”
Among the outreach events teams participated in this past season include participating in the Gilbert Days Parade, Friendsgiving, working with the Special Olympics, Toys for Tots and having a sports equipment drive.
The women’s soccer team participated in Feed My Starving Children multiple times through the year packing food boxes which are sent to third world countries as well as the Best Buddies Walk and Hidden Opponent which works to bring mental health resources to student-athletes.
In addition, the Bucs had 7 teams with a overall team GPA over 3.0, led my women’s soccer who posted a 3.47 GPA.
Park University Gilbert looks to continue setting the standard for athletic, academic and community excellence as it moves into the Great Southwest Athletic Conference in 2024-25.
Presa Release courtesy of Park University Athletics – Preston English
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