The Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) celebrated its Fourth Annual Blue Devil Choice Awards, recognizing top athletes and academic achievers among the student-athletes. The prestigious Frederick M. Gladstone and Gail Rutz Awards were given to stand-out seniors: Maegan Desmarais and Grace Lawton for women’s sports, and Elijah Howard and James Sullivan for men’s sports. These awards highlight the exceptional achievements in athletics, team support, and academic excellence recognized among peers.

By the Numbers
  • Desmarais contributed to eight NEC titles with 10 NEC All-Conference honors.
  • Howard recorded 3,037 rushing yards and 24 rushing touchdowns, ranking third in CCSU history.
  • CCSU won six NEC team championships this season, with opportunities for more as softball competes for a title.
Yes, But

While the awards celebrate individual and team achievements, there is growing competition among CCSU athletes, with increasing pressures to excel both athletically and academically in a rigorous conference landscape.

State of Play
  • CCSU's athletics programs continue to thrive, amassing a record 52 NEC championships since 2014-15.
  • The awards night showcased not just top athletes, but emphasized academic excellence, reflecting a commitment to student success.
What's Next

As the CCSU athletics program gears up for future seasons, the focus will likely be on reinforcing its competitive edge while maintaining academic standards, potentially leading to even more accolades and championships.

Bottom Line

The Blue Devil Choice Awards not only highlight individual athletic prowess but also underscore the importance of academic achievement, setting a powerful precedent for future athletes at CCSU. This dual focus is essential for continued success in a highly competitive environment.