KANSAS CITY, MO (September 1, 2026) – Last week, the KC Sports Commission celebrated the 53rd Kansas City Sports Awards presented by Populas. The annual award show honors outstanding individuals for their commitment and achievement in sports. This year’s event honored eight individuals who highlight and model the tremendous sports town that is Kansas City.
“As Kansas City continues to generate unprecedented excitement for its national and international sporting events, these honorees represent the best of our local sporting community,” says Kathy Nelson, President and CEO of the Kansas City Sports Commission. “Together, these individuals and their organizations play a critical role driving fan engagement, awareness and opportunity for Kansas City.”
From tenured coaches, dominant athletes, local leaders, and Kansas City champions, we are proud to honor the following award winners. For more on their stories and impact, please visit the KC Sports Commission YouTube page or click their name below.
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
Celebrating 60 years
In addition to celebrating the 53rd Kansas City Sports Awards, the KC Sports Commission is celebrating 60 years of making an impact on sports in Kansas City. During the awards show, President and CEO Kathy Nelson shared a sneak peek of a special documentary highlighting the organization’s history, milestones and impact over the past six decades. Take a look below!
The full documentary is set to air this fall. Stay tuned to the KC Sports Commission’s Instagram page for the official air date and time.
Thank you
The Kansas City Sports Awards would not be possible without our outstanding guests, partners, and sponsors. Thank you to everyone who contributes to creating a better Kansas City through sport. A final thank you to the KC Sports Commission staff for the incredible event.
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.