Gulf Coast sweeps Halbrook Trophies
PERKINSTON — Mississippi Gulf Coast has won the David M. Halbrook Jr. Trophy for the academic success of its student-athletes for the sixth time since 2009-10.
This year, the award was divided into men's and women's for the Community College, Public University, and Independent College divisions. Gulf Coast swept the awards for the Community College division.
The Halbrook Award was established in 1984 by the state Legislature and was set up to recognize colleges that achieve high academic standards and to encourage high graduation rates.
Gulf Coast, which had more than 200 players in 11 varsity sports in the 2024-25 academic year, had the highest percentage of student-athletes graduate, complete or transfer in both the men's and women's divisions.
"This incredible accomplishment underscores the commitment of our student-athletes to excellence both on and off the field," said Dr. Mary S. Graham, MGCCC President. "Winning both the men's and women's Halbrook Trophies is a testament to the hard work of our students, coaches, and academic support staff who prioritize academic success and personal growth. At MGCCC, we are proud to foster an environment where student-athletes can thrive in the classroom, in competition, and in life."
MGCCC also won the Halbrook in 2009-10, 2011-12, 2012-13, 2015-16 and 2021-22.
Each institution has a male and female student-athlete recognized with the David Halbrook Certificate for Academic Achievement Among Athletes. It recognizes the efforts of individual student-athletes who excel in academics, leadership, and service. Gulf Coast's awardees were football's Joseph Bradford and tennis' Kendall Burn.
The awards were announced by the Mississippi Association of Colleges and Universities, which brings together presidents and chancellors of the state's postsecondary institutions. The award was endowed by former state lawmaker David Halbrook Sr. and his brothers in honor of their parents.
For more information on MGCCC's 12 intercollegiate athletic teams, follow @MGCCCBulldogs on Twitter and MGCCCBulldogs on Facebook, and go to mgcccbulldogs.com.
