This award is presented annually from nominations received from member schools. The award is given by the NCHSAA, with the support of the North Carolina Coaches’ Association and the North Carolina Athletic Directors’ Association. In addition to a trophy and a banner for display, the school receives a $1,000 cash award. The Exemplary School Award recognizes the top overall school in the state in terms of the “total program,” encompassing, but not limited to, athletic success, the scope of athletic opportunities offered, facilities, community interest and involvement, academics, and other relevant factors.
The North Carolina High School Athletic Association is pleased to announce the selection of Topsail High School as the 2024-2025 Exemplary School Award winner.
Topsail is located in Hampstead, North Carolina, within Pender County. This recognition highlights its outstanding commitment to education-based athletics and student achievement. The school demonstrated excellence in multiple areas, including achieving Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 status on the NFHS Honor Roll and maintaining a team of three athletic administrators, one of whom holds a CAA certification and another a CMAA certification. Topsail showcased a strong emphasis on sportsmanship, remaining ejection-free throughout the entire school year. The school also actively participated in NCHSAA special programs, with students attending the Student Leadership Summit and receiving NCHSAA scholarships. Additionally, Topsail’s student-athletes achieved an impressive overall team GPA of 3.5 or higher. This award underscores Topsail High School’s dedication to excellence both on and off the field.
