Talladega Athletic Department was honored with the prestigious 2026 HBCUAC Howell Cup Award during the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Athletic Conference (HBCUAC) Summer Conference Meetings held in Dallas, Texas.
The Howell Cup is awarded annually to the conference institution that demonstrates the highest level of competitive success across all sports throughout the academic year. Talladega College earned the honor after capturing more conference championships than any other member institution during the 2025-26 athletic season.
"This award is a reflection of the tremendous dedication and commitment displayed by our student-athletes, coaches, administrators, and supporters throughout the year," said the Talladega College Athletic Department. "To be recognized as the top athletic department in one of the nation's premier HBCU conferences is a proud moment for our institution."
Talladega's championship season was highlighted by several standout performances across multiple sports programs.
The women's cross country team opened the year by capturing the HBCUAC Cross Country Championship, setting the tone for a historic athletic campaign. The women's soccer team followed with a conference championship of its own, continuing the department's momentum during the fall season.
In the winter season, the women's basketball team advanced to the HBCUAC Championship game and finished as conference runner-up after another successful season of competition.
Talladega's cheerleading program also brought home an HBCUAC title, winning the Traditional Cheer Championship and further adding to the department's impressive list of accomplishments.
During the spring season, the Talladega baseball team captured the HBCUAC Baseball Championship, while both the men's and women's track and field programs earned runner-up finishes at the HBCUAC Track and Field Championships.
In addition to conference success, Talladega College also made a strong impact on the national stage. Every championship-contending program, with the exception of cheerleading, advanced to their respective NAIA National Tournament, showcasing the continued growth and competitiveness of Tornado athletics.
The Howell Cup victory caps off one of the most successful athletic years in recent history for Talladega College and reinforces the institution's commitment to excellence both academically and athletically.
