FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Griffin Schaetzle

KANSAS CITY, MO (July 29, 2026) – The KC Sports Commission has announced the award winners for the 2026 Kansas City Sports Awards presented by Populous. The annual award show features seven awards highlighting game changers and champions throughout our community.

“This year has been extraordinary for Kansas City sports. The momentum generated by local, national, and international events has elevated our community and reinforced that Kansas City is not only a premier sports destination, but also home to the exceptional people who make it all possible,” said Kathy Nelson, President and CEO of the KC Sports Commission. “We are proud to honor the individuals and teams whose achievements continue to put Kansas City in the spotlight.”

The 2026 Honorees:

Spire Community Champion
Jason Sudeikis
KC Native & Philanthropist

Polsinelli Sportsman of the Year
Keaton Wagler
University of Illinois Men’s Basketball & Shawnee Mission Northwest Alumnus

Children’s Mercy Sportswoman of the Year
Jaliya Davis
University of Kansas Women’s Basketball

Burns & McDonnell Coaches of the Year
Rand Chappell
Johnson County Community College Men’s Basketball
&
Ben Conrad
Johnson County Community College Women’s Basketball

T-Mobile Legacy Award
Cliff Illig
Sporting Kansas City

McCownGordon Construction Executive of the Year
Pam Kramer
KC2026

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City &
the Kansas City Royals Shut Out the Stigma Advocate Award
Reggie Morris
Raytown South High School Boy’s Basketball

The Kansas City Sports Awards will be held on Wednesday, August 26 at the Muehleblach Tower of the Kansas City Marriott Downtown. The event will start with a 5:30 p.m. reception followed by the dinner and awards program, scheduled for 7 p.m. More information can be here.

About The Kansas City Sports Commission and Foundation
The mission of the Kansas City Sports Commission & Foundation is to drive Kansas City’s overall sports strategy, to enrich the quality of life, create economic impact and raise visibility for our region. As a privately-funded nonprofit, we are entirely dependent on your support. For the latest on Kansas City Sports Commission news, follow on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.