NFL High School Coach of the Year Awards
The NFL High School Coach of the Year Awards by the National Football League Foundation honor high school football coaches for leadership, integrity, and positive impact on youth athletes.
Funder: National Football League Foundation
Due Dates: November 20, 2026: NFL High School Flag Football Coach of the Year Award nomination deadline | December 2, 2026: Questionnaire closing date | December 7, 2026: Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year nomination deadline
Funding Amounts: $15,000 grant to each winner's school program plus $10,000 cash award to each winner; $1,000 to each other club nominee.
Summary: Recognizes and rewards outstanding high school tackle and flag football coaches for leadership, integrity, and positive impact on youth athletes.
Key Information: Nominations must be submitted by NFL club personnel in collaboration with nominated coaches.
Description
The NFL High School Coach of the Year Awards, supported by the National Football League Foundation, celebrate exemplary high school football coaches—both tackle and flag—who demonstrate integrity, achievement, leadership, and dedication to player health, safety, and character development. The program includes the Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year Award and the NFL High School Flag Football Coach of the Year Award, recognizing coaches who profoundly impact their teams and communities. Winners receive significant recognition, financial awards, and unique opportunities to participate in major NFL events.
