Nov. 21, 2025 SHARE: The 2024-25 athletic seasons at Houston Christian University were defined by both achievement and growth across several programs, none more compelling than the Huskies’ resurgent baseball team. Their Southland Conference (SLC) tournament championship came on the 10th anniversary of the program’s previous league title and also signaled a renewed competitive spirit in all of Husky Athletics. As we reflect on a year of milestones, we find stories of perseverance and success. Women’s Cross Country Posts Best-Ever SLC Finish; Men Continue Building HCU women’s cross country earned its best-eve Southland finish, placing third with 110 points, while the men also achieved their top result with 116 points, led by Edouard Lecrivain in 15th place. At the NCAA South Central Regional, the women placed 13th out of 29 teams. Senior Arlette Concepcion finished 49th (20:53.3) in the 6K, and the men placed 20th. A Resurgence Anchored in Leadership and Resolve The 2025 baseball season marked a thrilling resurgence under new head coach Clay VanderLaan. The Huskies posted a 32–23 record—a 14-game improvement from 2024—and captured their first SLC tournament title since 2015 with a 16–11 win over New Orleans. Their NCAA regional appearance, though marked by losses to Texas and Kansas State, provided invaluable postseason experience and momentum for future success. A Season of Rebuilding and Developing Potential Under new head coach Craig Doty, the men’s basketball team embraced a rebuilding year focused on growth, defensive intensity, and a dynamic offense. Despite a 3–8 non conference start, the Huskies finished 9–11 in Southland play, earning a conference tournament berth and achieving their most conference wins in eight years. Doty’s vision and leadership laid the groundwork for sustained progress and future success. Heartbreak and a Foundation Laid HCU men’s soccer had its most successful season in years and reached a conference tournament championship match for the first time since 2010. HCU fell in the Ohio Valley Conference Championship match in heartbreaking fashion as Southern Illinois University Edwardsville scored a golden goal in the second overtime to thwart the Huskies. Navigating Transition Under New Leadership In his inaugural season, head coach Jason Bachtel guided the football team through a year of transition. The Huskies concluded with a 5–7 overall record and 3–4 mark within the Southland Conference. Noteworthy, however, was the team’s offensive firepower, exemplified by a commanding 70–7 victory over Louisiana Christian and a season-closing 62–24 win over Northwestern State. Beach Volleyball Is Competitive Despite Youth HCU beach volleyball closed 2025 with a 13-20 record and 4-4 in Southland duals. Sophomores Kirstin Gilmour and Rachel Heilbrun led the team at 21-11, earning wins over ranked foes from Texas and Grand Canyon. The Huskies narrowly missed advancing to the final day of the SLC Championships after falling to San Jose State in an elimination match. Facing Adversity and Looking Forward HCU softball endured in a season that saw long-time head coach Mary-Ellen Hall unavailable to be on the field with the team. The Huskies reached the SLC Tournament for the fifth-consecutive year and the team’s resilience in the face of adversity will be a critical component of their development moving forward. Competitive Tenacity Amidst Mixed Outcomes The women’s volleyball squad demonstrated commendable competitiveness throughout the season. With an overall record of 11 – 17 and an 8-8 conference tally, the Huskies displayed resilience and tenacity in the SLC Tournament, very nearly pulling off a first-round upset of No. 2 seed Stephen F. Austin. Steady Progress and Competitive Presence In track and field, HCU saw five student-athletes qualify for the NCAA Outdoor Track & Field West Prelims to compete for a chance at reaching the NCAA Outdoor Championships. The Huskies also had their third overall and first-ever male athlete earn SLC Student-Athlete of the Year honors for both the indoor and outdoor seasons. Strong Showing and Growing Promise The HCU Men’s Golf Team showed steady improvement, delivering consistent performances and developing a stronger competitive edge. While still seeking major titles, the team’s cohesive play and solid individual rounds revealed a firm foundation and rising potential. With key players gaining valuable experience, the Huskies are poised for continued growth and greater success in upcoming seasons. Solid Growth Underscores Future Potential HCU Women’s Golf Team continued strong play on the links, posting a second-place finish at the SLC Championships with true freshman Ploy Makmanee finishing just two strokes shy as an individual. The season featured moments of strong individual play and team progress. With dedicated recruitment and player development, the women’s program looks positioned to remain one of the league’s top programs. Growth Shown in Year One With Coach Nick Whiting HCU women’s soccer finished 2024 at 5-9-5 overall and 3-4-3 in Southland play. After opening with four road games, the Huskies improved steadily, showing offensive progress in conference action. In Coach Nick Whiting’s first season, the team displayed promise and laid key foundations for future growth.
