Houston Athletics Honors Standouts at 2026 Cougar Choice Awards

Courtesy of University of Houston Athletics

HOUSTON, Texas (TXAN 24) — University of Houston Athletics celebrated a historic 2025–26 campaign Monday night with its annual Cougar Choice Awards, held inside Fertitta Center.

The event recognized top student-athletes, coaches, and contributors across the program. Regina Torres Pomar earned the Rich Stotter Champion for Life Award for her all-around excellence in academics, athletics, and community service.

On the court, Emanuel Sharp was named Male Cougar of the Year after becoming the school’s all-time leader in career three-pointers and reaching 100 career wins. Kaycee McCoy took Female Cougar of the Year honors following a standout track season that included a No. 2 all-time program mark in the 60m hurdles.

Freshman standouts Kingston Flemings and Samira Minor claimed Rookie of the Year honors. Flemings delivered a record-breaking basketball season, while Minor led Big 12 freshmen in scoring for soccer.

The Cougars football team secured Team of the Year after a 10-win season capped by a Texas Bowl victory over LSU, led by Head Coach of the Year Willie Fritz.

Additional honors highlighted academic excellence, resilience, and community impact, showcasing the depth of talent across Houston Athletics.

The annual ceremony capped a year marked by competitive success, academic achievement, and growing national recognition for the Cougars program.