IU Columbus Crimson Pride Athletics Program Recognized with 5 Star Gold Award

The Crimson Pride athletics program at IU Columbus was recognized recently with a five star gold award for being Champions of Character.

According to the school, IU Columbus received the top recognition from the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics. This was only the second year for IU Columbus athletics and the first year in as a full member of the NAIA’s River States Conference .

The recognition comes after an assessment on character training, conduct in competition, academic focus, character recognition and character promotion. In addition to grade point average, the schools are allowed to have only a minimal number of ejections during competition. 209 schools received the recognition during the 2023-24 school year.

IU Columbus Director of Athletics Zach McClellan said the award means more to him than winning a championship. He said it reflects the positive impact his coaches, players and staff are making, and the high standards the new program is setting.

McClellan also pointed out that student-athletes have contributed more than 3,000 community service hours in the area with work cleaning up local athletic facilities, walking shelter dogs, stocking the campus food pantry and volunteering for the Mill Race marathon

The Crimson Pride program now offers men’s and women’s soccer, men’s and women’s cross country, women’s volleyball, softball, and baseball. This school year, IU Columbus is adding men’s and women’s basketball, track and field, and competitive cheer and dance teams.

You can get more information at iuccrimsonpride.com.