INDIANAPOLIS – The Great Midwest Athletic Conference is proud to announce Ashland University women’s soccer standout Dani Hicks as the recipient of the conference’s Female Collegiate Achievement Award.
Hicks leaves behind one of the most accomplished careers in Ashland women’s soccer history, excelling as a student-athlete, leader, and servant to her community throughout her four years with the Eagles program.
In the classroom, she maintained an outstanding cumulative 3.9 GPA while earning numerous academic honors, including being named a two-time Scholar All-American.
On the field, Hicks established herself among the elite players in Ashland and Great Midiwest program history. She finished her career with 47 goals, 29 assists, and 123 points while helping lead the Eagles to three G-MAC Championships and four NCAA Tournament appearances. Her decorated athletic career included:
- Four-time All-Conference selection, including three First Team honors
- Two-time G-MAC Offensive Player of the Year
- Three-time D2CCA All-Region honoree
- Two-time D2CCA Region Player of the Year
- Two-time Academic All-America
- Second Team All-American
While her accomplishments speak for themselves, Hicks’ journey was also defined by resilience. During her collegiate career, she endured and recovered from two torn ACL injuries. Through every setback, she remained a source of positivity and strength for her teammates and coaches.
“A great way to cement the legacy Dani has left on both Ashland University and the women's soccer team,” said Ashland head women’s soccer coach Cayleb Paulino. “The G-MAC Women's Collegiate Achievement Award encompasses not only success on the field but also in the classroom and service within the community. Dani has led by example in all three of those areas in her time here at Ashland. While also being named both All-America and Scholar All-America this year, this award truly shows the impact Dani has had here in her career at Ashland University.”
Beyond athletics and academics, Hicks dedicated herself to serving others through more than 160 hours of community service over four years. Her involvement included:
- Assisting with Ashland University Women’s Soccer Youth Camps and ID Camps through coaching, mentorship, and camp operations
- Volunteering at the Ashland County Animal Shelter, helping care for animals and walking dogs
- Supporting the Make-A-Wish Foundation through fundraising and awareness efforts for children and families in need
- Serving with the Student Wellness Team at Ashland University by promoting campus health initiatives, assisting with outreach events, and participating in wellness education programming
“This award means so much to me,” said Hicks. “I’m thankful for my teammates, coaches, and trainers who made this journey possible. It’s been a privilege to play alongside such incredible young women at Ashland who continue to push me to be a better person today and who helped shape me into the player I was my last 4 years on the field.”
Hicks’ impact on the Ashland community extends far beyond statistics and accolades.
The Great Midwest Athletic Conference proudly recognizes Dani Hicks as a truly deserving recipient of the Female Collegiate Achievement Award and celebrates the lasting legacy she leaves at Ashland University. Hicks is the second Eagle to receive the prestigious honor, with Annie Roshak winning in 2024.