Champions of Character
The SUNO Knights are Champions of Character
Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO) proudly stands as a proponent and active participant of the NAIA's Champions of Character program. This initiative, driven by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), aims to transform the culture of sport by instilling core values that build character. By emphasizing integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership, the program ensures that students, coaches, and parents learn, embody, and value the right behaviors both on and off the field. Research indicates that extended participation in sports enhances students' social reasoning and willingness to sacrifice for the team.
The Champions of Character program helps maintain this balance by integrating its core values into every aspect of the athletic experience. Students are taught to apply these values in practice and competition, while coaches learn to intentionally model and reinforce them. Parents are educated on how their behavior can best support their athletes. For over a decade, Champions of Character has been instrumental in developing well-rounded athletes, coaches, and parents, and SUNO is committed to advancing this mission of character-driven athletics.
SUNO Athletics was honored as one of the NAIA Champions of Character® Five-Star Award winners for the 2023-24 academic year. It was one of the NAIA's Gold Five-Star member institutions recognized for their exceptional commitment to the core values of the NAIA Champions of Character program. Gold Five-Star recognition is the highest honor for Champions of Character.
Champions of Character FIVE CORE VALUES
INTEGRITY, RESPECT, RESPONSIBILITY, SPORTSMANSHIP, and SERVANT LEADERSHIP
Learn more about the NAIA Champions of Character here.
OUR STATEMENT ON GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP AND GOOD CHARACTER
At Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO), we believe that true success in sports is defined not just by victories, but by the integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership exhibited by our athletes, coaches, and parents. We are committed to fostering an environment where these values are paramount, ensuring that all participants learn, embody, and value the right behaviors both on and off the field. By emphasizing integrity, we promote honesty and strong moral principles. Through respect, we recognize and honor the dignity of all individuals. Responsibility ensures accountability for actions and decisions, while sportsmanship encourages fair play and graciousness in both winning and losing. Finally, servant leadership inspires selflessness and a commitment to the greater good. At SUNO, we are dedicated to cultivating a sports culture that exemplifies these ideals, preparing our students for success in all aspects of life.
GAME DAY: MAKE IT FUN, KEEP IT RESPECTFUL
In the spirit of sportsmanship, the N.A.I.A., SUNO asks that all fans act responsibly and courteously to those around them. Abusive language or disorderly conduct is unacceptable and unwelcome at Knights' events. Please give all student-athletes, coaches, officials, and your fellow fans the respect they deserve. The throwing of objects is strictly prohibited, and violators will be ejected from the facility. Also, for your safety and the safety of the players, coaches, and officials, please stay off the field/court at all times, including at the end of the game. Let's make this game fun, and keet it respectful!