CRITERIA FOR NOMINEES

“This project is aimed at honoring individuals and organizations who have creatively and effectively used sport in the very best way - as a means to educate and shape positive value.” – Dan Doyle

From the time the Institute announced the project in 2004, the organization received over 1500 nominations for individuals and “teams.” After reducing the list to 200 individual finalists and 30 “team” finalists, the Institute appointed a final selection committee comprised of coaches, athletic administrators, journalists and academicians. David Bloss, former Sports Editor of the Providence Journal, chaired the committee.

The following categories were considered:

• Authors who have published a noteworthy book(s) and/or article(s) on sport that has enhanced the field of sports education.
• Athletic Administrators who have created and/or administered programs that promote the highest ideals of sport.
• Coaches whose enlightened philosophy helps inculcate the virtues of sportsmanship and honorable competition.
• Sports Psychologists and Sports Psychiatrists whose cutting edge work has fostered not only sports performance enhancement but also a greater enjoyment and appreciation of the benefits of sports participation.
• Sports Sociologists and Sports Philosophers whose research and writing has enlightened society to the strengths and weaknesses of sport.
• Sports Medicine Professionals whose work has not only enhanced the practice of sports medicine but has also made a difference in raising awareness of the dangers of steroids and other performance enhancing drugs, and who have developed programs to combat this serious problem.
• Academics, Educators and Teachers from a variety of fields who seek to foster needed sports reform.
• College Presidents whose leadership is reflected in a balanced approach to sports and academics at their institutions.
• Founders and/or Directors of sports institutes that promote the highest ideals of sport.
• Olympic Officials who, in fostering the true Olympic ideal, have positively impacted the Olympic movement and sports education.
• Sports Parenting Experts whose writing and lectures have helped further develop this new and important field.
• Social Entrepreneurs who have created events or programs which positively engage youth, and promote the highest ideals of sport.
• Volunteer Coaches and/or Administrators whose work in impoverished or high-risk communities has helped youth.
• Athletes who have used their high profile status as a forum to inspire youth toward the highest ideals of sport.
• Sports Ethicists whose writing and lectures have heightened awareness of the importance of ethical practices in sport.
• Exercise Scientists whose research and practices have enhanced training regimens and general physical fitness.