MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – North Central University men's golf senior Joe Stanton has been named the recipient of the 2026 National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) Dan & Kelly Wood Award for Men's Golf, recognizing his outstanding achievements in athletics, academics, leadership, and Christian character.
The Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, native has made a lasting impact on the Rams' men's golf program, demonstrating excellence both on and off the course throughout his time at North Central. From his success in competition to his dedication in the classroom and commitment to serving others through his faith, Stanton has exemplified the values of NCU Athletics.
Stanton's recognition marks a significant individual accomplishment for the Rams' men's golf program and highlights his commitment to representing North Central University at the highest level.
The NCCAA officially announced Stanton as the 2026 recipient, recognizing his accomplishments and contributions to the university and beyond.
Official NCCAA Release
The following is the official announcement from the National Christian College Athletic Association.
GREENVILLE, S.C. – The NCCAA is pleased to announce Joe Stanton of North Central University (NCU) as the winner of the 2026 Dan & Kelly Wood Award for Men's Golf.
A senior from Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, Stanton has been a stalwart for the Rams' men's golf team, finishing top 10 in a 90-person field at the 2026 University of Northwestern Invite and earning medalist honors at the 2026 Polar Invite. He earned Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) Honorable Mention honors and received the UMAC All-Sportsman Award last season.
In the classroom, Stanton holds a 3.92 GPA while pursuing a degree in accounting and finance, was named UMAC Academic All-Conference, earned a spot on the Dean's List twice, and was named the Fall 2025 Distinguished Scholar Athlete for his school. He is also a member of the NCU Student Athlete Advisory Committee and leads a weekly team chapel and devotions for the men's golf team while also being active in his church.
Stanton has found ways to impact others away from campus on social media, as he has used his personal experiences and challenges to encourage others on Instagram, spending over 50 days in a row reading devotionals and encouraging followers to focus on God and persevere through hard times.
North Central University Head Men's Golf Coach Isaac Wright said, "I have never had to wonder how Joe would represent North Central, his heavenly Father, and himself. I would want him to be the poster child for what it means to be a student-athlete. His relationship with God comes first, he is an active student with great grades, he has already accepted a full-time accounting position upon graduation and happens to also be a fantastic golfer. This is the model that I hope every athlete who walks through the doors of any Christian institution strives to be."
About the Dan & Kelly Wood Award
Dan and Kelly Wood's commitment to the NCCAA is evident in the growth of the Golf National Championships with venue upgrades, the addition of women's golf, and an enhanced format. While at two NCCAA member institutions, Dan served as NCCAA Men's Golf Chair from 1993-1999. He assumed the role of Executive Director in 2000 and developed the Game Plan 4 LIFE character initiative while also expanding Christian Service Projects and sports ministry funding. Kelly worked for the NCCAA for over 30 years. Her heart for the Lord and to reach others for Christ helped grow the NCCAA's Kingdom impact.
Source: National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA), 2026 Dan & Kelly Wood Award announcement.
