The University of North Alabama (UNA) recently achieved a remarkable milestone in collegiate athletics by winning the prestigious 2024-25 ASUN Men’s All-Sports Trophy. This exciting accolade marks a significant moment in the university’s athletics history, as it is the first time UNA has been honored with the Jesse C. Fletcher Trophy. This award is presented annually by the Atlantic Sun Conference to the athletic department that secures the highest point percentage across all the men’s sports it sponsors.
As part of the 2025 Annual Awards held at One Ocean Resort in Jacksonville, Florida, UNA’s achievement was celebrated among peers. The Lions culminated their season with an impressive total of 124.5 points out of a possible 153, translating to an extraordinary success rate of 81.3%. This accomplishment places them at the pinnacle of collegiate competition, overshadowing other notable programs such as Lipscomb (70.5%), FGCU (70.3%), Stetson (68.6%), and North Florida (64.3%).
UNA President Dr. Ken Kitts expressed his elation about the award, emphasizing its significance to the university and its athletics department. "It is a shining moment in North Alabama Athletics history to receive the Jesse C. Fletcher Trophy," he stated. "This is, indeed, a crowning achievement for UNA and all those who were part of this winning season." The recognition not only celebrates the competitiveness of UNA’s athletic programs but also the dedication of the coaching staff and athletes who contributed to this landmark success.
Leading the charge for the Lions were the men’s basketball and men’s tennis programs. The basketball team secured 34.5 points, which included sharing the regular season title, while the tennis team contributed 27 points by achieving an outright regular-season championship as well as a tournament title. This synergy among the teams undoubtedly played an essential role in UNA’s overall success throughout the season.
The accomplishments don’t stop there. The men’s golf team, for instance, added another 27 points to UNA’s total by finishing in fourth place at the 2025 ASUN Championship, held in Valdosta, Georgia. Meanwhile, the men’s cross-country team achieved a commendable fifth place finish in the 2024 ASUN Championship in Jacksonville, led by individual champion Brian Bett, who helped the team secure 24 points. The efforts of the baseball team completed the scoring with 12 points after finishing third in the ASUN Gold Division and clinching its first trip to the ASUN postseason tournament.
Each of these programs not only contributed substantially to UNA’s success but also delivered record-breaking performances during the season, achieving their highest point totals since the Lions joined the ASUN in 2018. Their extraordinary accomplishments demonstrate the potential and competitive spirit of UNA athletics.
Dr. Josh Looney, UNA’s Director of Athletics, echoed these sentiments, describing the achievement as a monumental accomplishment that encompasses the entire department. "To accomplish this feat in just our third year of full Division I membership represents another significant FIRST to celebrate," he stated. His remarks highlighted the unity and commitment exhibited by the athletes, coaches, and all staff, reinforcing how collective effort drives success at the university.
As UNA Athletics moves forward, the excitement for the future remains palpable. The Lions are not just celebrated for their immediate accomplishments; they are also recognized as a growing force in the Atlantic Sun Conference. The positive energy and dedication displayed by the entire athletic department fuel their ongoing journey of excellence. As Dr. Looney aptly mentioned, the collective belief and tenacity of the UNA community will undoubtedly set the stage for even greater achievements in the forthcoming seasons.
For those interested in staying updated on North Alabama Athletics, various platforms are available. Fans can follow the Lions on their official website, www.roarlions.com, and across social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Engaging with the community and supporting the teams is part of what makes the athletic experience at UNA so special.
In summary, the Lions winning the 2024-25 ASUN Men’s All-Sports Trophy encapsulates not only the skill and dedication of the student-athletes but also the pride of the North Alabama community. This achievement represents a substantial leap forward for a program that is rapidly establishing itself as a contender in collegiate athletics. As they continue to build on this momentum, the future looks bright for North Alabama Athletics, and fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in their exciting journey.
