CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Cascade Collegiate Conference announced the recipients of the 2025-26 CCC Teams of Character Awards. Earning this year's honors are the College of Idaho Men's Cross Country team and the Bushnell University Women's Beach Volleyball team, both of which exemplify the NAIA Champions of Character values of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership.
The award, honoring one men's and one women's team, is determined by a vote of the conference's athletic directors following nominations submitted by member institutions. These two programs embody the heart of the NAIA and CCC's Champions of Character initiative and serve as outstanding examples of leadership, service, sportsmanship, and character throughout the Cascade Collegiate Conference.
Men's Team of Character, College of Idaho Men's Cross Country:
The College of Idaho men's cross country team exemplifies the true meaning of character through its commitment to sportsmanship, service, leadership, and team culture. Throughout the season, the Yotes earned recognition from opposing coaches, meet officials, and spectators for their respect toward competitors and positive presence at competitions.
Whether supporting teammates during races or encouraging athletes from opposing teams, the Yotes have built a reputation as one of the most uplifting and sportsmanlike programs in the conference. Their commitment to competing the right way has made them outstanding ambassadors for both the College of Idaho and the Cascade Conference.
Beyond competition, the team has made a meaningful impact in the Caldwell community through its partnership with Run Your City, a nonprofit organization focused on building inclusive communities through running. The Yotes helped establish and grow the program locally, introducing youth to the sport while creating an environment centered on positivity, confidence, and perseverance. Student-athletes regularly participate by running alongside participants, leading activities, and offering encouragement to young athletes.
Within the program, the team places a strong emphasis on accountability, trust, and personal growth. During preseason camp, athletes work together to define team values, goals, and expectations while veteran runners pass along traditions and lessons that reinforce the program's identity. This intentional approach has created a supportive environment where student-athletes feel comfortable being authentic, vulnerable, and connected to something larger than themselves.
The College of Idaho men's cross country team represents the ideals of the Team of Character Award through its integrity, leadership, service, and unwavering commitment to supporting others both on and off the course.
Other Male Team Nominees: Bushnell University Men's Basketball, Lewis-Clark State College Baseball, Northwest University Men's Cross Country and Track & Field
Women's Team of Character, Bushnell University Beach Volleyball:
The Bushnell University beach volleyball team has established itself as one of the premier Champions of Character programs in the conference, consistently demonstrating respect, integrity, responsibility, and sportsmanship in competition, the classroom, and the community.
The Beacons enjoyed a successful season on the sand, earning a place in the NAIA Top 10 rankings while finishing tied for third in the Cascade Conference standings. Their commitment to sportsmanship was recognized with the CCC Team Sportsmanship Award, reflecting their dedication to The Right Way to Play. In the classroom, the team matched its athletic success with a 3.60 cumulative GPA during the 2025-26 academic year and earned NAIA Scholar Team recognition.
Service remains a cornerstone of the program's culture. As a team and as individuals, the Beacons averaged more than 20 hours of community service throughout the year. Their efforts included supporting the Project Hope School Supply Giveaway, participating in a FOOD for Lane County canned food drive, and assisting with a Christmas Adopt-a-Family program.
During Bushnell's annual Embrace the Community Day, team members partnered with Nearby Nature to assist with trail maintenance, invasive species removal, and environmental restoration projects. Through their relationship with Grace Community Fellowship, home of the Bushnell Beach Courts, the Beacons also help host community beach volleyball tournaments that bring together participants of all ages while fostering connection and engagement through sport.
The team's commitment to service extends well beyond organized projects. Student-athletes volunteer as tutors, serve local churches, and contribute to organizations including Meals on Wheels, Northwest Harvest, and Young Life. Senior Avery Lenssen completed a volunteer internship with One Hope serving underserved populations throughout Lane County, while senior Hailey Heider participated in a week-long mission trip to Kosovo.
Together, the Beacons have created a culture centered on servant leadership, academic excellence, sportsmanship, and community engagement, making them a deserving recipient of the CCC Team of Character Award.
Other Female Team Nominees: College of Idaho Women's Golf, Lewis-Clark State College Women's Golf, Northwest University Women's Soccer, Southern Oregon University Women's Soccer