Leavenworth, Kan.—It is with immense pride that the University of Saint Mary announces that the Spire Men's Swimming team has been awarded the Bruce Brown CCA Team of Character Award.
The Bruce Brown Conference Commissioners Association (CCA) Champions of Character Team Award is 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 University of Saint Mary men's swim team has demonstrated exceptional character by establishing a culture where service and community outreach are valued as highly as athletic achievement. Their impact extends far beyond the pool, enriching the student experience and strengthening the campus community. Driven by integrity, compassion, and generosity, the team's commitment to serving others unites its members around a common goal.

Vice President of Athletics, Rob Miller, reflected on what this means to USM, stating, "We are incredibly proud of our men's swimming team for earning the NAIA Bruce Brown CCA Champion of Character Award. This honor reflects the kind of student-athletes we strive to develop at Saint Mary, individuals who demonstrate integrity, leadership, respect, and a commitment to something bigger than themselves."

Over the past year, the team has accumulated hundreds of volunteer hours, with many members also serving in leadership roles across campus. Through community service, the team has strengthened relationships and fostered a culture of selflessness. This commitment has also enhanced communication, unity, and overall performance both in and out of the pool.

Head coach David Bresser proudly remarked "Receiving the NAIA Bruce Brown CCA Champion of Character Award is incredibly meaningful because it represents the values we strive to instill in our student-athletes every day at Saint Mary. Our goal has always been to help young men and women grow not only as competitors, but as leaders, teammates, and individuals of integrity. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with remarkable student-athletes who embody these principles and make this recognition possible."

Explore the NAIA's National Award recipients and celebrate the individuals whose accomplishments continue to define the NAIA at the official NAIA website.

Coach Bresser and his squad will soon make their mark in the pool with the season just around the corner. Spire men's and women's swim will kick off the 2026-27 season at the Sam Freas Invite in Edmond, Oklahoma on Saturday, September 26^th.