Nicole Gal and Mason Hickel from Ole Miss have received the Brad Davis SEC Community Service Award for the 2025-26 academic year, honoring standout male and female student-athletes across the SEC. Their community service efforts include initiatives like Adopt-A-Basket and Feed the Sip, benefiting families and elementary students in need. Award winners receive a $7,500 scholarship, while the overall leaders will be eligible for a $15,000 scholarship announced later this month. Gal, a senior golfer, has an impressive competition record, while Hickel has excelled in track and field, with multiple academic accolades. Both athletes exemplify leadership and commitment to community service while succeeding in their sports.

By the Numbers
  • Gal competed in 33 collegiate events with a 73.64 career scoring average.
  • Hickel is a three-time NCAA East Region qualifier and finished third all-time at Ole Miss in the weight throw.
State of Play
  • Ole Miss student-athletes engage in a variety of community initiatives, such as Reading with the Rebels and Trunk or Treat.
  • Both winners are nominees for the Brad Davis Community Service Leaders of the Year Award, set to be announced in May.
What's Next

The SEC will announce the Brad Davis Community Service Leaders of the Year later in May, recognizing two exemplary athletes for their contributions. Successful nominees might inspire more community involvement and scholarship opportunities for future athletes.

Bottom Line

Gal and Hickel exemplify the ideal balance of athletic excellence and community engagement, reinforcing the SEC's commitment to developing not just athletes, but well-rounded individuals contributing positively to society.