First Annual
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.
A Night Built
To Inspire
Designed to inspire student athletes and families while recognizing excellence on and off the field.
Red Carpet
Arrival on a red carpet with step-and-repeat, media wall, and a professional photographer capturing the night.
Keynote Speaker
A featured guest such as a pro athlete, former pro, motivational speaker, or community leader sharing a message of resilience and purpose.
Scholarships
We will award partial up to full scholarships for tuition, books, and related costs to select participants, pending fundraising success.
What to
Expect
Scholarship Note
Scholarship amounts and the number of recipients are tied to donor and sponsor commitments. As our fundraising grows, so will our impact. Thank you for helping us make this night unforgettable.
Recognizing Growth
Character and Excellence
Finalists reflect the values and growth Strong Start champions across athletics, academics, and character.
Student-Athlete of the Year
Excellence in sport, academics, and leadership.
Academic Excellence
Outstanding classroom performance and effort.
Leadership & Character
Role-model behavior on teams and in the community.
Comeback Award
Overcoming adversity with grit and resilience.
Community Impact
Service and volunteerism that lifts others.
Mentorship Champion
Peer mentor who supports and elevates teammates.
Coach’s Honor
Coach-nominated athlete who embodies team values.
Team of the Year
Collective achievement, culture, and sportsmanship.
Strong Start Spirit
Represents the mission: Inspire. Support. Impact.
How Finalists
Are Chosen
Eligibility
- Current Strong Start program participant or cohort graduate in 2027.
- Meets team and school eligibility requirements.
- Exemplifies Strong Start values: Respect, Responsibility, Transparency, Youth Power, and Community.
Selection Process
- Nominations open to coaches, counselors, mentors, and staff.
- Panel reviews athletic progress, academics, character, and community impact.
- Top four finalists per category receive event invitations and guest passes.
An Evening
To Remember
| 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 |
Help Make This
Night Possible
Your support helps cover event costs, provide scholarships for student athletes, and ensure deserving families can attend at no cost.
Donations Fund
- Venue and meal costs for student athletes and families
- $1,000 scholarships for each award winner
- Sound, lighting, and stage setup
- Recognition plaques and photography for finalists
Scan this code to donate directly from your phone. It links to the official PayPal campaign for the Strong Start Awards Banquet.
Donate via PayPal
Securely contribute to the official Strong Start fundraiser.
Help Create
A Pro-Level Night
Frequently Asked
Questions
What should guests wear?
Dressy or semi-formal attire. Think banquet night with photo opportunities and media coverage.
Are tickets required?
Finalists receive complimentary tickets with guest passes. Additional seating may be limited, so please request early.
Accessibility
We are committed to providing an inclusive event experience. Please inform us of accessibility needs in advance.
Photo / Media Consent
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?