Scholarship Opportunity for Senior Student-Athletes – CIF Spirit of Sport Award Now Open

Scholarship Opportunity for Senior Student-Athletes – CIF Spirit of Sport Award Now Open
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As the 2025-2026 school year continues, we are pleased to share an exciting scholarship opportunity for senior student-athletes.

The 2025-2026 CIF State Spirit of Sport Award application is now open. This distinguished award recognizes senior athletes who exemplify the true spirit of athletics — outstanding sportsmanship, leadership, and service to both their school and community.

What the Award Honors

The Spirit of Sport Award celebrates athletes who demonstrate qualities such as integrity, fairness, respect, character, and leadership — traits that extend beyond athletic performance and reflect outstanding citizenship and community involvement.

Scholarship Details

  • State Winners: One male and one female athlete are chosen statewide for each sport season (Fall, Winter, Spring). Each State winner receives a $2,500 scholarship, an award, and a recognition patch.

  • Section Winners: In addition, one male and one female athlete from each of the 10 CIF Sections per season (60 total) receive a $1,000 scholarship.

  • State winners are required to attend the CIF State Federated Council event on Friday, April 24, 2026, in Oakland.

Who Can Apply

  • Eligibility: CIF member schools may nominate one male and one female senior athlete per sport season. Applications must be submitted online by the student.

  • Selection Criteria: Applicants are evaluated on sportsmanship, leadership, community service, and character.

How to Apply

Student-athletes should complete the online application, which includes:

  • Personal and parent/guardian information, school information,

  • Principal verification with a signature,

  • A student essay, and

  • A list of athletic and extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and community service activities.

Deadline

The application deadline is February 27, 2026. Students interested in applying should start their application as soon as possible.

For complete eligibility and application information, visit the official CIF Spirit of Sport Award page:
https://www.cifstate.org/parents-students/awards_and_scholarships/spirit_of_sport

If you have questions as you prepare your application, please reach out to your coach or school counselor.

Apply for the CIF Spirit of Sport Award