The Cal Maritime Department of Athletics and Physical Education was one of sixteen
institutions across the country to earn National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics
(NAIA) Champions of Character Five Star Gold Status during the 2020-21 academic year. The Keelhaulers were
the only program in both California and the California Pacific Conference acknowledged
with the NAIA's top character award.
The Champions of Character program helps participants find the balance by keeping
five core values – integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership – at the heart of the athletics experience.
"This award celebrates the teamwork and dedication of our cadets, coaches, and staff
to uphold the pillars of the NAIA Champions of Character which are also embedded in
our Cal Maritime values," said Director of Athletics and Physical Education Karen
Yoder.
To qualify for the Five Star awards, institutions are measured on a demonstrated commitment
to Champions of Character and earn points in character training, conduct in competition,
academic focus, character recognition and character promotion. Cal Maritime earned
points based on exceptional student-athlete grade point averages and by having minimal
to no ejections during competition throughout the course of the academic year. The
NAIA worked to collaborate with member institutions to better reflect efforts that
were impacted by transition and adjustments from COVID-19.
"Our cadet-athletes have embraced the five core values - both in the heat of competition
and our communities," said head men's basketball coach Tim Bross. "This accomplishment
is a testament to the efforts of so many, and it reflects a commitment to character
development."
Cal Maritime has set its intention on recruiting and developing cadet-athletes who aim to succeed on the field and in the classroom. Earlier this summer, the Keelhaulers hosted their first-ever Cadet-Athlete Orientation in which administrators, coaches and current cadet-athletes distilled the culture of Cal Maritime Athletics for interested cadets on campus.
To learn more about the NAIA Champions of Character and the Five Star awards, visit naia.org.
ABOUT CAL MARITIME
Established in 1929, California State University Maritime Academy is the only degree-granting
maritime academy on the West Coast. Located in Vallejo, California, the campus offers
undergraduate degrees that prepare students for careers in engineering, transportation,
international relations, business, and global logistics. Cal Maritime also offers
a master’s degree in Transportation and Engineering Management, as well as a number
of extended learning programs and courses.