Montgomery, Ala. — Blue Mountain Christian University softball received the Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC) Mayor Todd Strange Female Champions of Character Team Award at the conference’s annual awards banquet Monday evening. The award recognizes the program that best demonstrates the NAIA Champions of Character core values of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership throughout the academic year.
While the Toppers achieved unprecedented success on the field, the honor highlights the culture built by head coach Matt Brunet and assistant coach MJ George. Throughout the season, the team consistently showed a commitment to service and representing Blue Mountain Christian University with excellence. One example was when Brunet and George helped members of St. Mary’s of the Woods after a doubleheader, transporting opposing student-athletes to local restaurants and back to their hotel — reflecting the servant-hearted leadership that defines the program.
The award caps a historic season for the Toppers, who earned their first-ever berth to the NAIA National Championship Opening Round. They spent much of the season among the top teams in the conference and set multiple school records. The team also received individual honors, including NFCA NAIA Region 1 Coach of the Year awards for Brunet and George. Center fielder Anna Harrison and first baseman Aspen Teague earned NFCA All-Region honors, and Harrison set program records in runs scored and stolen bases. The pitching staff delivered standout performances, including a no-hitter by Neely Cooper.
Brunet said the award represents more than wins and losses. “This honor means a great deal to our program because it recognizes something bigger than wins and losses,” he said. “We want our players to compete at a high level, but more importantly, we want them to represent Christ and Blue Mountain Christian University with integrity, humility, and a servant’s heart. I am incredibly proud of our student-athletes and coaching staff for the way they cared for others and carried themselves throughout the season.”
Blue Mountain athletic director Curt Fowler praised the team for embodying the university’s mission. “Coach Brunet and Coach George have built a program that reflects everything we hope Blue Mountain athletics will represent,” Fowler said. “This team achieved remarkable success on the field, but what makes this award so special is the character displayed behind the scenes. Their willingness to serve others, put people first, and represent Christ in their leadership is what truly sets this program apart. We are incredibly proud of this team and this well-deserved recognition.”
The Champions of Character award serves as a fitting conclusion to a memorable season. While the team’s victories and records will be remembered, its display of character throughout the year may be its most enduring achievement.
