Bethune-Cookman University’s Athletic Department has won the C.D. Henry Award, recognizing it as the top men's athletic program in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) for the 2025-26 academic year. This is a historic achievement as it’s the first time B-CU has received the award since joining the SWAC. The department excelled across various sports, highlighted by capturing its first-ever SWAC men's cross country title and regular season championships in men's basketball and baseball. The Vice President for Athletics, Reggie Theus, emphasized it as a testament to the dedication of athletes, coaches, and the university community.

By the Numbers
  • B-CU scored 70.5 points, positioning them at the top of the league standings.
  • The Wildcats achieved their best-ever finish in men's basketball with a record of 17-15 and a 14-4 conference mark.
State of Play
  • B-CU secured its first SWAC Championship in men's cross country in the fall.
  • The baseball team recorded a historic season, finishing with a 37-18 overall record and 23-7 in SWAC play.
What's Next

The success in the 2025-26 academic year sets a high standard for B-CU as it looks to build on this momentum in the coming years, with hopes of sustaining competitive performance across all men's sports. The department aims to further enhance its championship culture and achieve greater recognition within the SWAC.

Bottom Line

Bethune-Cookman’s receipt of the C.D. Henry Award marks a transformative moment, highlighting the commitment and potential of its athletic programs. As the university celebrates this achievement, it has established itself as a rising contender in the SWAC, paving the way for future success.