Pittsburgh, Pa. – The Duquesne University Department of Athletics celebrated its student-athletes, coaches, and sports programs at the fourth annual Dukes Awards Show held at the UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse. The night was filled with excitement as multiple awards were presented to outstanding individuals and teams.
Student-Athletes of the Year
The Student-Athlete of the Year awards recognize those who not only shine in their sport but also excel in academics and show leadership. This year’s winners are:
David Dixon (Men’s Basketball)
Dixon stands out as one of the few players who completed a full four-year journey with the Dukes. During his time, he hit impressive milestones, including becoming just the second player to achieve over 100 blocks and 100 dunks. He played a vital role in the team’s success, including their Atlantic 10 Championship win in 2024, which marked their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 1977. Dixon’s dedication to the team led to an impressive 76 wins in his four seasons.
Madelyn Moretti (Track & Field)
Moretti made history by being the first athlete from Duquesne to qualify for the NCAA East Regional in the shot put. With a record-breaking performance and multiple medals to her name, she has consistently shown her skills in both indoor and outdoor seasons. Beyond sports, she is also a nursing student, balancing her athletic and academic pursuits.
The Bluff Cup
Awarded to the athletic program that excels in community service, the Bluff Cup this year goes to the triathlon team. They dedicated over 412 hours to various community initiatives, highlighting their commitment beyond sports.
Special Awards
Several other awards were given, making the night memorable:
Father Silas Rooney Award: Freshman Brendan Burns and sophomore Ava Brewster earned recognition for their exemplary leadership both on and off the field.
Leadership Award: Robyn Hunt from the triathlon team received this honor for her dedication and initiative in helping her teammates succeed.
Herb Bonn Character and Courage Award: This award went to Dixon again, recognizing his commitment to team values in various aspects of life.
Staff Member of the Year: Michaela Soper, head coach of acrobatics & tumbling, was honored for her exceptional guidance and leadership, helping the team reach new heights.
Newcomer of the Year: Freshman Sylvia Kashak made a tremendous impact in her first season, securing a silver medal in the Atlantic 10 Championship and setting new school records.
Community Impact and Trends
Athletes increasingly engage in community service, reflecting a notable trend across college sports. A recent survey showed that about 70% of college athletes believe community involvement enhances their college experience and strengthens team bonds. This trend is evident in Duquesne’s programs, where students balance sports, academics, and community work.
As the Dukes continue to shine in athletics, they demonstrate the importance of both competition and community service, showing that true athletic success embodies much more than just winning games. For insights on Duquesne Athletics and updates, follow them on their social media channels: X, Instagram, and Facebook.
