First Annual Strong Start Awards Banquet — 2027
A red-carpet celebration honoring outstanding Strong Start program participants. Finalists in each category will be invited with guest passes for parents and siblings. Expect a celebrity keynote, professional photography, interviews, and a night that feels like the pros.
Event Highlights
Designed to inspire student athletes and families while recognizing excellence on and off the field.
Arrival on a red carpet with step-and-repeat, media wall, and a professional photographer capturing the night.
A featured guest (pro athlete, former pro, motivational speaker, or community leader) sharing a message of resilience and purpose.
We will award partial up to full scholarships for tuition, books, and related costs to select participants—pending fundraising success.
Event Details
Award Categories
Finalists reflect the values and growth Strong Start champions across athletics, academics, and character.
Excellence in sport, academics, leadership.
Outstanding classroom performance and effort.
Role-model behavior on teams and in the community.
Overcoming adversity with grit and resilience.
Service and volunteerism that lifts others.
Peer mentor who supports and elevates teammates.
Coach-nominated athlete who embodies team values.
Collective achievement, culture, and sportsmanship.
Represents our mission: Inspire. Support. Impact.
Nomination & Selection
- Current Strong Start program participant (or cohort graduate in 2027).
- Meets team/school eligibility requirements.
- Exemplifies Strong Start values: Respect, Responsibility, Transparency, Youth Power, Community.
Evening Schedule (Tentative)
| Time | Program |
|---|---|
| 5:00 PM | Red Carpet, Check-In, & Photos |
| 5:45 PM | Welcome & Dinner Service |
| 6:30 PM | Keynote Speaker |
| 7:00 PM | Awards Presentations |
| 8:15 PM | Scholarship Announcements |
| 8:45 PM | Interviews & Closing Photos |
Times subject to change. Final schedule will be emailed to invitees.
Help Fund the Awards Banquet
Your support makes the Strong Start Awards Banquet possible. Every dollar raised helps us cover event costs, provide scholarships for student athletes, and ensure that deserving families can attend at no cost. Together, we can celebrate achievement and inspire future leaders.
Donations from this campaign will directly fund:
- Venue and meal costs for student athletes and their families
- $1,000 scholarships for each award winner
- Sound, lighting, and stage setup for the event
- Recognition plaques and photography for all finalists
Thank you for trusting us with your generosity and helping to build a brighter future for young athletes.
It links to our official PayPal campaign for the Strong Start Awards Banquet.
Donate via PayPal
Securely contribute to the official Strong Start fundraiser.
Attend, Sponsor, or Support
Dressy or semi-formal attire. Think “banquet night” with photo opportunities and media coverage.
Finalists receive complimentary tickets with guest passes. Additional seating may be limited; please request early.
We are committed to providing an inclusive event experience. Please inform us of any accessibility needs in advance so we can support you.
A photographer and videographer will capture the evening. Consent forms will be provided during RSVP.
Contact the Banquet Team
Have a question about nominations, sponsorships, or attendance?