The Concordia softball team has been honored as the first-ever Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC) Women's Champions of Character Team. The team is now eligible for the NAIA's Conference Commissioners Association (CCA) Champions of Character Team Award, given annually to one men's and one women's team for their exemplary character on the field, on campus, and in the community.

The softball team, under the guidance of head coach Hailey Cavanagh, is a leader in the CUAA athletic department's value of community service and the five core values of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership. The Cardinals are actively involved on campus, in the community, and are daily incorporating programming to develop their student-athletes in mind, body, and spirit.

"It's so important to get involved in your college career in more than just your athletics and give back to those around you," said Cavanagh."Our players represent our program and University so well, and couldn't be more proud of them."

The softball leads the athletic department in cumulative community service hours as the team volunteers as a group and on an individual basis. They were also recognized at the 2019 CARDYS as the Champions of Character team which is voted on annually by the Concordia community.

The nomination for the annual award came at the support and recommendation of Lonnie Pries, Director of Athletics. "Our softball team is definitely deserving of this honor from the WHAC, said Pries. Coach Cavanagh and her players consistently demonstrate a commitment to competing and serving with character, and are a great example for others on our campus."

Below is a list of some initiatives, programs, and community partners that the softball team has implemented throughout the 2019-20 academic year and are ongoing.

• Volunteered and participated in the JDRF Walk supporting their adopted student through Team Impact
• Participated in Walk to School Day at Emerson Elementary
• Team Impact Graduation
• St. Paul's Walk-a-thon
• Adopt a Family for Christmas
• Participated Mission trips hosted by the Campus Ministry team
• Adopt A Youth Travel Team program
• Thankful Thursday sharing on Social Media