For the second time in four years, Big Bend Community College has been recognized by the Northwest Athletic Conference(NWAC) for the scholarship of its student-athletes with the Vikings earning their second Presidents Cup.
The award is presented each year to the institution whose student-athletes have the best performances in the classroom. Points are awarded for those who complete 36 credits, 72 credits, and for certificate or degree completion. The amount of points awarded are determined by student-athletes GPA.
BBCC took first place in the NWAC’s Dick McClain Division for schools that compete in seven or fewer sports. Mt. Hood Community College took the cup in the Frank Bosone Division for schools that compete in eight or more sports.
Big Bend competes in men’s and women’s basketball, baseball, softball, and volleyball.
“This recognition from the NWAC confirms that our student-athletes are students first,” said Big Bend Community College President, Terry Leas. “We are proud of our athletes’ success and our coaches for emphasizing the importance of success in the classroom and on the court/field. Our coaches continue to support excellence in teaching and learning.”
Big Bend won its first Presidents Cup in 2012-13 and placed second in 2013-14, and 2014-15.
“This recognition highlights the quality of student-athletes our coaches are recruiting and the success of BBCC’s academic and support programs,” said BBCC Athletic Director Preston Wilks.
The Big Bend Athletic Department and its athletes will be honored with the presentation of a banner in a ceremony to be scheduled at a later date.
Other finalists in the McClain Division included Peninsula College, Lower Columbia College, and Wenatchee Valley College.
Other finalists in the Bosone Division included Lane Community College, Walla Walla Community College, and Southwestern Oregon Community College.