$5,000 Scholarship Available to Sportsmanship Athletes

The St. Louis Sports Commission is accepting nominations for its annual Sportsmanship Scholarship.  Unique to the region, the $5,000 scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school senior from the St. Louis metro area who demonstrates outstanding sportsmanship in athletic competition.  The scholarship is part of the Sports Commission’s ongoing Sportsmanship Initiative and efforts to promote sportsmanship in the community.

The Sportsmanship Scholarship nomination packet can be obtained online atwww.stlsportsmanship.org or by calling 314-345-5130.  Nominations must be received by June 15, 2012.  The recipient will be selected by July 31. 

Scholarship candidates should be nominated for exemplifying the ideals and values of sportsmanship: honesty, integrity, civility, selflessness, kindness, compassion and class.  While off-field activities and community service are applauded, candidates will be evaluated primarily for their approach and character in competition.  Athletic performance (wins and other statistics) is not a factor.  Those connected to athletic teams, such as student managers, also are eligible for the scholarship should their leadership and behavior represent an extraordinary standard and model for all in sports to follow.

The Sportsmanship Scholarship was created in 2009 by the St. Louis Sports Commission Associates – a group of young professionals who volunteer to support the Sports Commission’s efforts.  The Associates raise funds for the scholarship and select the recipient.  They have awarded $12,500 in the three years they and the Sports Commission have administered the program.  Six area students have received scholarship funds.  Their bios can be viewed by clicking here.   

The Sports Commission Associates will host their third annual Trivia Night on Aug. 25 at Temple Israel in Creve Coeur to raise funds for the Sportsmanship Scholarship.  To participate, call 314-345-5101.