NHIAA Presents Annual Awards in Concord

The following are various awards that are given each year by the NHIAA, and the 19-20 and 20-21 winners were recognized at the 75th Annual Meeting of the NHIAA on September 13, 2021 at the Grappone Conference Center at the Courtyard by Marriot in Concord.

Walter Smith Award: 

Instituted in 1996 to recognize individuals who have overcome special circumstances and contributed significantly and positively to interscholastic athletics.

2020 recipients include, from left to right: Noah Jenkins (Nashua High School North), Faith Smith (Newfound Regional High School), and Matt Weimer (school representative pictured, Derryfield School).  

2021 recipients include, from left to right: Roger Belanger (Berlin High School), Danielle Cote (Gilford High School), and Alexis King (Plymouth Regional High School).

 

Carol Dozibrin Advancement of Girls Sports Award: The Carol Dozibrin Advancement of Girls Sports Award Program: First given out in 1996, this award recognizes an individual who has contributed to the development of girls' athletics at the high school level. 

The 2020 recipient, shown left, is Sheila Colson (Spaulding High School).  The 2021 recipient, shown right, is Amy Ballou (Keene High School).

 

James W. Desmarais Service Award Presentation: Instituted in 1970 and renamed for former longtime NHIAA Executive Director, James Desmarais, this award is given to recognize meritorious service to the NHIAA.  There have been 63 dedicated individuals recognized for this honor since 1970.

The 2020 recipient, shown left, is Peter Wotton (Dover High School).  The 2021 recipient, shown right, is Howard Sobolov (Londonderry High School). 

 

Anthony "Tony" Urban Award: Established in 2019, the Anthony "Tony" Urban Award is given for meritorious service to an "unsung hero" who embodies the ideals of the NHIAA in service to the NH student-athletes and in support of the best opportunities for the student-athlete to compete under and within. In memory of Anthony "Tony" Urban and all that he was. 

The 2020 recipient, shown left, is Mark Maurais, Milford High School).  The 2021 recipient is Rick Forge (Gilford High School).

 

For the historical lists of winners, please click here.