NEW ORLEANS — Xavier University of Louisiana has won the 2018-19 Thomas Howell Cup, the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference’s all-sports award. This is the third year in a row that Xavier University has been crowned overall GCAC champions as it captures its eighth Howell Cup in nine years.

Xavier scored 54.5 out of a possible 59 points.

The Thomas Howell Cup, named for the GCAC’s longtime commissioner, is awarded annually to the school with the most points based on the order of finish in various sports. Xavier was elevated by GCAC championships in men’s cross country, women’s cross country, women’s volleyball (regular season and tournament), women’s basketball (regular season) and women’s outdoor track and field.

“This award is recognition of the hard work that our student-athletes, coaches, and staff have dedicated to their craft all year long,” said GCAC President Jason Horn, who is also Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs and Director of Athletics and Recreation at Xavier University.

Edward Waters College came in second place overall and earned a total of 41 (out of 60) points while Dillard University landed in third place with 34 points.

Philander Smith College and Talladega College tied for fourth place, scoring 33 points apiece while Tougaloo College (30 points), Southern University at New Orleans (26 points) and Rust College (11.5 points) round out the remaining slots.

Former GCAC member University of Mobile leads all schools with 18 Howell Cup awards while Xavier University holds strong at number two with eight overall. Dillard University remains in third place among current GCAC schools with one Howell Cup award (2015-16).