LIVONIA, Mich. - The Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC) announced the nominations for the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) special awards this week and Madonna University Cross Country Head Coach and Track and Field Assistant Coach Patrick Daugherty was selected as the Coach of Character. 

The honor recognizes a coach who demonstrates methods of teaching character through sport while instilling a tradition of athletic and community excellence. The award centers itself on the five core values of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Champions of Character initiative: integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership.

"I don't feel there is another coach in the country that deserves the Coach of Character honor more than Patrick Daughtery," said Madonna Track and Field Head Coach Stacy Latnie. "His respect, integrity, and sportsmanship are unmatched and something I strive to follow as a coach."

In his 16th season with the Crusaders, Daugherty was the first MU coach to earn the recognition. The 2019 NAIA Women's Cross Country Coach of the Year and assistant coach to the 2021 NAIA Outdoor Men's Track and Field National Champions, Daugherty has worked to instill the five core Character Values in his teams and is seeing these values lead to competitive success. 

"What makes coach unique is his sense of humor, he is always able to put a smile on your face," said student-athlete Mackenzie Gurne. "I truly would not want any other person as a coach. I respect him as a person and a coach."

He uses his practices to teach his student-athletes the value of respect and integrity. The team congratulates one another after each rep on hard runs and that has led to great sportsmanship at events as the Crusaders not only cheer for their teammates, but also for their opponents. 

"Patrick is a true team player and cares deeply about his student-athletes, coaches, and colleagues," said Madonna Athletic Director Scott Kennell. "He has an unbelievable spirit centered on doing what is right for his student-athletes."

The NAIA will announce the national award winners on National Awards Day, Sept. 15, 2021. 

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