LOCK HAVEN, Pa.- The Mercyhurst University athletic department finished eighth in the final 2013-14 Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Dixon Trophy standings, released Tuesday. The finish is the best in school history for the honor, which goes to the conference's most successful program at the end of each academic year.
 
The Laker men finished with the highest average score in the PSAC this school year. They posted an 11.94 average, just ahead of West Chester's 11.70 score. Mercyhurst was boosted by baseball's strong season, as the Lakers won 30 games in 2014.
 
Mercyhurst's women placed ninth in the league with an 8.72 average. The women's lacrosse team tied for the PSAC regular season title in 2014, earning 16 points for the department. The women's tennis team advanced to the NCAA Tournament, helping the Lakers improve their overall score.
 
Overall, California (Pa.) won with a 12.28 average. Shippensburg was second. Mercyhurst scored a 10.24, good for eighth overall and fifth among Western Division programs. Gannon took ninth place.
 
Mercyhurst was 11^th after the fall season and 10^th through winter action this school year. The Lakers' previous high finish was 11^th, which they accomplished in 2009-2010 and 2012-2013. Mercyhurst joined the PSAC prior to the 2008-09 school year.
 
For the PSAC release, please click here.