RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – On Tuesday, the Great American Conference announced its sportsmanship awards for the 2024-25 athletic season, with Harding receiving honors in both men's and women's soccer. These prestigious awards are chosen by the league's head coaches through a point system.

Harding made history by becoming the first school to win the GAC Sportsmanship Award for both men's and women's soccer in the same season. This recognition marks the eleventh time in 13 seasons that our women's soccer team has earned this honor. For the men's soccer team, this is their first-ever sportsmanship award.

"These awards emphasize the NCAA Division II focus on sportsmanship and game environment," said GAC Commissioner Will Prewitt. "We could not be prouder of what these programs have put forth on the field and in ways that aren't necessarily reflected in the outcome."

The GAC's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee initiated the sportsmanship award in 2012 for all team sports. Winning schools receive a banner, similar to those presented to GAC tournament championship winners, to promote good sportsmanship among teams, fans, and all involved with athletic events.