The NFF Gridiron Club of Dallas proudly presents a variety of awards at its Annual Awards Banquet each spring. While the descriptions below outline each honor, please note that the awards presented may vary from year to year.

High School Awards

Clearview Foundation Scholar-Athlete of the Year

This award is selected from a distinguished group of high school scholar-athletes recognized annually. Honorees are evaluated based on athletic achievement, academic excellence, and community leadership. One student-athlete is named the top scholar-athlete and receives national recognition as a member of the NFF Team of Distinction.

Scott Murray Community Service Award

Presented to a college-bound graduating high school scholar-athlete who has made a meaningful philanthropic impact within their community.

Army Black Knight Scholarship Award

Awarded to a high school scholar-athlete who demonstrates exceptional achievement both on and off the field, exemplifying the values and standards of the U.S. Army.

Passion Grants Foundation Award

Presented to a high school scholar-athlete who best represents the power of passion and its positive impact on communities. Candidates submit a 500-word essay exploring a personal passion, encouraging reflection, creativity, and authentic self-expression. The NFF Gridiron Club of Dallas entered into a partnership with the Passion Grants Foundation whereby they are funding a $2,500 per year scholarship from 2024 through 2028.

Steve Hatchell NFF Extra Mile Award

This award honors a high school scholar-athlete who exemplifies selfless service by consistently going above and beyond expectations. The recipient demonstrates outstanding character and a commitment to enriching the lives of others through leadership and service.

Major Award Winners

Distinguished Texan Award

The North Texas Chapter’s most prestigious honor, recognizing an individual who has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to the game of football and has made significant contributions to advancing the sport in Texas.

Legends Award

Presented to a former athletic director or coach who has made lasting contributions to the game of football—whether through its evolution, its presentation, or the experience it provides to players and fans.

Outstanding Contribution to Amateur Football

Awarded to an individual or organization whose tireless efforts support and promote amateur football while advancing the mission of the NFF.

Steve Storie Official of the Year

Recognizes an official who has shown long-term dedication to the game through excellence in officiating, upholding the rules, and supporting the continued development of football.

Media Person of the Year

Presented to an outstanding media professional who has significantly contributed to the coverage and promotion of football—particularly high school football—across the North Texas region.

High School Coach of the Year

Awarded to high school head coaches who exemplify excellence, integrity, and sportsmanship both on and off the field. This award may be presented to one or more school classifications each year dependent on their performance at the various competition levels.

Scholar-Athlete Recognition

Collegiate Scholar-Athletes

Collegiate honorees are selected based on their athletic achievements, academic performance, and leadership at their university and within their communities.

High School Scholar-Athletes

High school honorees are recognized for excellence in athletics, academics, and community leadership. These student-athletes will attend a wide range of respected institutions—including Ivy League universities, state schools, and U.S. service academies—with many continuing their football careers at the next level.