Athlete of The Year

Athlete of the Year Awards

In an effort to recognize and celebrate amateur athletes across Mississippi, the State Games of Mississippi has established its annual Athlete of the Year Awards.

Coaches, officials, athletes, volunteers, and spectators may nominate athletes who have demonstrated outstanding performance, sportsmanship, dedication, and participation during the State Games. Nominations are reviewed by the State Games of Mississippi Nomination Committee.

An Athlete of the Year is selected for each of the State Games’ 40 sporting events. From these sport-specific honorees, the Nomination Committee selects three Overall Athletes of the Year: Overall Male Athlete of the Year, Overall Female Athlete of the Year, and Overall Youth Athlete of the Year.

All Athlete of the Year recipients (for each specific sport) are recognized for their accomplishments and contributions to the State Games of Mississippi. The three Overall Athletes of the Year serve as ambassadors for the State Games throughout the year, helping promote amateur athletics and healthy lifestyles across Mississippi. They also have the honor of carrying the State Games flame and lighting the torch at the following year’s Opening Ceremonies.