Leadership Award Nominations

Special Olympics Florida invites you to participate in our Annual Recognition program.

Submitting a nomination is an opportunity for the athletes, volunteers, coaches, families and other deserving groups to receive statewide recognition for their outstanding contributions to Special Olympics Florida.  You are encouraged to nominate a deserving candidate in the following categories.


Athlete of the Year

Award is presented to the athlete whose life exemplifies athletic skill, courage, generosity,  and a joyful spirit.  This athlete should be well rounded and able to represent Special Olympics Florida at competitive and non-competitive events around the state if needed.  


Unified Partner of the Year

Unified Partner of the Year award is presented to the person whose life exemplifies an attitude of social inclusion and improving the skills, fitness, confidence and friendships of our athletes. This partner should be well rounded and able to represent Special Olympics Florida at competitive and non-competitive events around the state if needed.  


Coach of the Year

The Coach of the year award is presented to the coach who has shown sportsmanship, understanding, and compassion in the truest spirit of coaching.  The nominee must have obtained certification in at least one sport and be actively coaching Special Olympics athletes. 


Bill Crutchfield Award

Presented to the volunteer within their region who has demonstrated outstanding and distinguished service, who has been a dynamic and positive influence upon the lives of people with and without intellectual disabilities and has a high commitment to the mission of Special Olympics and human dignity.


Kathy Graybeal Family of the Year Award

The Family of the Year award is presented to the family who makes a unique and lasting contribution to the lives of people with intellectual disabilities through their involvement with Special Olympics Florida. 


Marilyn Grigsby Award

The Marilyn Grigsby Award is presented to an association, corporation, civic or fraternal group, business, agency, or school system within the region that has provided sustained involvement, service, guidance, expertise, project management or leadership over 5 or more years and who has greatly impacted your program, volunteers or athletes. 


Media Organization of the Year

This award is presented to the media organization or agency whose year-round coverage and support has enhanced public awareness and highlighted the accomplishments of athletes, volunteers, or other aspects of the Program.   


Sports Organization of the Year

Presented to the sports organization or agency who has made an exceptional impact in the community through their support and sporting events.


Please note that awards may be presented at either a state or local event based on the discretion of our executive leadership team.