NEW ORLEANS — Xavier University of Louisiana is the 2010-11 winner of the Thomas Howell Cup, the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference's all-sports award.It's the first time that Xavier has won the award. The athletics department finished in the top three the past six seasons.
The Thomas Howell Cup, named for the GCAC's longtime commissioner, is awarded annually to the school with the most points based on order of finish in various sports. Xavier, boosted by repeat championships in men's cross country, women's cross country and women's basketball, finished the year with 31 points. First-year member Edward Waters was second with 23 points, and Dillard and SUNO tied for third with 20 points apiece.
Xavier has won 26 GCAC team championships and earned 20 berths in NAIA national championships during its last six seasons. Xavier suspended intercollegiate athletics in 2005-06 in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. In five seasons since then, the Rush and Nuggets have combined for 22 GCAC team championships and 17 berths in NAIA national championships.
The GCAC this summer will add two members, Philander Smith and Talladega, to increase league membership to eight schools for 2011-12.
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By Ed Cassiere, Sports Information Director
VISIT: XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
VISIT: XULAATHLETICS
