The Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) has proudly announced the recipients of the esteemed Fred E. Rozelle Sportsmanship Award for the 2022-2023 school year. This distinguished honor recognizes member schools that consistently promote sportsmanship both on and off the field, fostering an environment of exemplary character and ethical conduct among their athletic teams.
Out of numerous contenders, the Academy of the Holy Names emerged as one of the outstanding schools to be named the runner-up in the 4A classification for the Fred E. Rozelle Sportsmanship Award. This achievement demonstrates the school's commitment to upholding the core values of good sportsmanship and fair play throughout the regular season and FHSAA State Series competitions.
The Fred E. Rozelle Sportsmanship Award, presented annually since 1991, is a testament to the enduring legacy of FHSAA Commissioner Emeritus Fred E. Rozelle. It seeks to honor schools that exemplify the highest standards of sportsmanship as demonstrated by their coaches, players, and spectators.
Craig Damon, Executive Director of the FHSAA, emphasized the importance of sportsmanship as one of the founding pillars of the association. He expressed his sincere congratulations to the Academy of the Holy Names and all other recognized schools for their dedication to upholding the principles established by the FHSAA's founding members.
Criteria for the selection of winners and runners-up for the Fred E. Rozelle Sportsmanship Award include various factors such as programs and activities implemented within the school and community to promote sportsmanship, the number and type of exceptional sportsmanship reports received, and the source of the nomination.
As part of the recognition, AHN will be awarded a commemorative plaque and a prize of $500 for being the runner-up in the 4A classification. Additionally, the classification winner, Bay High School from Panama City, will receive a plaque and a prize of $2,500.
The FHSAA and the entire community join in celebrating the accomplishments of the Academy and the other distinguished schools for their exemplary display of sportsmanship and commitment to creating a positive and respectful environment in high school sports. These schools serve as inspiring examples for students, athletes, coaches, parents, and fans alike, embodying the spirit of sportsmanship that the Fred E. Rozelle Sportsmanship Award aims to recognize and foster. Congratulations to the Academy of the Holy Names for this well-deserved recognition, and may their commitment to sportsmanship continue to inspire others in the years to come.