Presented by POPULOUS

AUGUST 26, 2026

Kansas City Marriott Downtown - Muehlebach Tower

5:30pm - Reception

7:00PM - Program Start

Each year, the Kansas City Sports Commission and Foundation honors outstanding individuals for their commitment to and achievement in sports. The benefits of sport are long-standing and this awards banquet celebrates all the positive aspects of sports.

Submit nominations here

Interested in being a sponsor? Please contact Dave Borchardt.

2026 AWARD HONOREES

“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.” 

Spire Community Champion
Jason Sudeikis, Philanthropist
Kansas City Native & Shawnee Mission West Alum

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

Children’s Mercy Sportswoman of the Year 
Jaliya Davis, Forward
University of Kansas Women’s Basketball & Blue Valley North Alum

McCownGordon Construction Executive of the Year
Pam Kramer, Chief Executive Officer
KC2026

Burns & McDonnell Coach of the Year 
Rand Chappell, Head Coach 
Johnson County Community College Men’s Basketball  

Burns & McDonnell Coach of the Year
Ben Conrad, Head Coach
Johnson County Community College Women’s Basketball

T-Mobile Legacy Award
Cliff Illig, Co-Principal Owner
Sporting Kansas City

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City &
the Kansas City Royals Shut Out the Stigma Advocate
Reggie Morris, Head Coach
Raytown South High School Boys Basketball