UNG is top athletic program in PBC
The University of North Georgia (UNG) Athletic Department set the standard for excellence in the Peach Belt Conference (PBC) in 2025-26, earning the David R. Brunk Commissioner's Cup.
North Georgia claimed the Commissioner's Cup for the third time in program history after also winning the award in 2016-17 and 2023-24. The honor is awarded annually to the top overall athletic department in the PBC based on regular-season standings and select championship results across all sports.
The Nighthawks totaled 83 points out of a possible 105 for a .790 rating to secure the conference's top athletic department distinction.
"We are proud of our student-athletes, coaches and staff. Their daily commitment to excellence is unmatched," Athletic Director Mary Rob Plunkett said. "They are the reason UNG is delivering on our strategic big bet to be the most competitive, value-added Division II athletic program in the nation."
North Georgia produced strong performances throughout the 2025-26 season, capturing regular-season championships in men's soccer, women's soccer, baseball, and softball. The Nighthawks also finished tied for second in women's golf; third in women's cross country, men's basketball and men's tennis; and tied for third in women's basketball.
The Commissioner's Cup standings are calculated by awarding points based on regular-season finishes in each PBC-sponsored sport. Cross country, golf and track and field are determined by championship finishes. Total points are then divided by the number of sports sponsored by each institution.
Softball team finishes in top six nationally
The UNG softball team earned one victory at the NCAA Division II championship to finish among the nation's final six teams.
Reaves named national softball Player of Year
UNG senior center fielder Sydnee Reaves has been named the National Fastpitch Coaches Association Division II Player of the Year.
Nighthawks advance to NCAA championship
The UNG softball team has punched its ticket to the NCAA Division II championship for the fifth time in six seasons. It opens the event at 6:30 p.m. May 28 against McKendree.