North Carolina High School Athletic Association
#BetterTogetherSince1913

Awards & Recognitions

The mission of the NCHSAA is to provide governance and leadership for interscholastic athletic programs that support and enrich students’ educational experiences. In keeping with that mission, the NCHSAA offers many award and recognition programs that highlight our members’ outstanding performances.

Deadline or Cadence
Dave Harris Athletic Director Award of Excellence NCHSAA Foundation, Inc.January 9, 2026
Homer Thompson Memorial “Eight Who Make A Difference” Award
NCHSAA
April 3, 2026
Toby Webb Outstanding Coach of the Year
NCHSAA Foundation, Inc.
January 23, 2026

Deadline or Cadence
Exemplary School of the YearMay 1, 2026
Wells Fargo CupConferences should complete standings by June 1

Deadline or Cadence
Athlete of the YearMay 25, 2026
Gatorade State Player of the YearSent to NCHSAA via Gatorade
Deadline or Cadence
Commissioner’s TrophyFebruary 1, 2026
Ejection-Free SchoolsEnd of Academic Year
Exemplary School of the YearMay 1, 2026

Deadline or Cadence
Heart of a ChampionApril 10, 2026
Performance of the Month powered by OrthoCarolinaMonthly
Plays of the Month powered by OrthoCarolinaMonthly
Scholar-Athlete AwardFall/Winter sports: March 15, and Spring sports: July 15, 2026
Spirit of SportFebruary 2, 2026
Talk it Out – Game of the WeekWeekly

Also see: Grants, Scholarships.