The Hampton University athletics program was tabbed as the top-ranked NCAA Division I Historically Black College & University (HBCU) program on Monday, based on the final standings of the 2009-10 Learfield Sports Directors’ Cup.

“This is a tremendous honor for Hampton University,” said athletics director Lonza Hardy Jr. “It is always our goal to have an athletics program which mirrors the university’s reputation and image as one of the best institutions of higher education in the nation. It speaks well of the high caliber of student-athletes we have as well as the dynamic and charismatic leadership and support that we get from our coaches, staff and administrators. The entire university community gets credit for this achievement.”

The Lady Pirates won the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Basketball Tournament in David Six’s first year as head coach, going 20-12 and making their first trip to the NCAA Tournament since 2004. Hampton went 12-4 in conference play, and junior Quanneisha Perry was named the MEAC Defensive Player of the Year, while sophomore Melanie Warner was named the MEAC Tournament’s Most Outstanding Player.

Hampton also won the MEAC women’s outdoor track & field championship, its fifth straight. Senior Francena McCorory won a pair of NCAA titles, defending her indoor crown in the 400-meter dash with an American record 50.54, before winning the outdoor title with a 50.69.