On Sunday night, two amazing OUAZ athletes were given the Cliff Hamlow Champion of Character award. Men's basketball star McKay Bundy and women's soccer versatile dynamo Grace Green earned the honor this year, being rewarded for their community service work, classroom excellence, and great play during their seasons.
The Cliff Hamlow Champion of Character award is given to one male and one female student at each GSAC member institution who demonstrate outstanding athletic achievement, campus and community leadership, future ambition, and embraces the five core character values of the NAIA Champions of Character program (Respect, Responsibility, Integrity, Sportsmanship, and Servant Leadership).
Student-athletes must be at least a junior academically and carry a 3.0 GPA. The award is named after former GSAC Commissioner Dr. Cliff Hamlow, who was a key leader in the creation of the NAIA Champions of Character program.
Bundy, the Graduate from Modesto, Calif., has earned his Bachelor of Arts in Sports Leadership, and is currently pursing a Master's in Arts and Leadership. Bundy earned his undergraduate degree with a 3.75 GPA, and is on track to earn his Master's this year.
Bundy has combined his passion for basketball with his leadership skills. His volunteer activities include organizing and working for a local elementary school Halloween fair, recreation days for students with special needs, and working youth basketball camps.
Green is also currently a graduate student, pursuing her Master's degree in Arts and Leadership. She earned her Bachelor's degree in three years while being an outstanding student and athlete at OUAZ.
Green is always giving back to her community, both at OUAZ and around the Valley. She has been a Field Marshall at Arizona Soccer Association tournaments and leading local youth camps at home and on the road.
Grace has been great in the church community as well, coaching CCV Stars teams during her time in Surprise. These teams are a part of a church-sponsored athletics programs that host volunteer coaches, and Green has been one of those standout volunteers.
Grace has also been a key leader in her five years at OUAZ. She has been an excellent presence on the successful women's soccer program, and also currently works on campus, helping her peers in many different ways.
Click here to learn more about this year's GSAC Cliff Hamlow Champion of Character award winners.
