Claudia Dodson Integrity in Sport Award (2008 - Present)

The WinS Claudia Dodson Integrity in Sport award honors a senior female athlete who consistently displays the qualities of integrity and fair play in practice, competition, and life. The recipient of the award earns a $3000.00 scholarship toward their continued education at an institution of higher learning. Only senior female athletes are eligible. The following paragraphs describe the qualities necessary in applicants, as well as the nomination procedure.

This award honors the memory and legacy of a WinS founder, but more importantly, a person for whom girl’s participation in sport was a lifelong passion and mission. Through her work with the Virginia High School League and her advocacy for girls, Claudia Dodson worked tirelessly to increase opportunities for girls to participate in sport and to be treated equitably. She was a highly ethical leader who by her words and actions made those around her better people. Claudia understood the meaning of fair play in its truest sense: To know what’s right and act on that belief, regardless of the consequences. The recipient of this award should share those qualities. Among them:

• A dedicated athlete and scholar; demonstrates personal commitment through hard work, persistence and a strong work ethic. Not necessarily the most talented athlete, but one who has put forth consistent effort over time in her chosen sport(s).

• Role model for others; displays a high degree of integrity and ethics in her dealings with teammates, officials, coaches, and opponents. Helps others be better at what they do.

• Someone who epitomizes fair play; a gracious winner and respectful competitor; someone who upholds not only the rules of play but the “spirit” of the game.

The nomination process is twofold:

1. A coach, player, or school administrator can submit nominations. In some cases, these nominations may be for someone on an opponent’s team. No self-nominations are permitted. Nominators will complete a brief application that states why the person should be considered for the award, along with basic information regarding that nominee (name, sport, etc.). Each school may nominate up to 3 candidates for the award.

2. If multiple nominees are submitted from one school, a review panel will select 1 athlete for further consideration. The nominator or their designee (coach, teammate) will then be asked to submit a more extensive (1-2 page) recommendation letter providing specific information regarding why this person is a good candidate for this award, and providing specific examples of behaviors the individual has displayed that conform to the qualities of the award. The individual writing the letter should be someone who has direct knowledge of the athlete’s performance and behavior.