NSCA Peer Awards
Awarded each year, peers select distinguished NSCA Members who make great contributions to the strength and conditioning and fitness industry. Peer Awards (formerly called Annual Awards) each have their own selection criteria, and, in most cases, members can nominate themselves for recognition. Review these prestigious awards and nominate someone you think is deserving of one of the NSCA’s sought-after honors.
Coaching Awards - awarded at the Coaches Conference
College Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year
The College Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year Award is given to an outstanding Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist® (CSCS) to recognize their dedication to improving athletic performance with safe and effective science-based programs.
Assistant College Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year Award
This award is given to a college or university Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach in recognition of his or her efforts on behalf of assistant coaches and dedication to the strength and conditioning profession. Nominees must be CSCS certified and hold a position as a Division I, II, III, or NAIA Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach.
Peer Awards - awarded at the National Conference
Personal Trainer of the Year
The NSCA Award that recognizes an NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer (NSCA-CPT®) or Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist® (CSCS®) for exemplary service to the advancement of the personal training industry.
Educator of the Year
The Educator of the Year Award recognizes noteworthy contributions to the teaching and clinical application of strength and conditioning.
Sports Medicine/ Rehabilitation Specialist Award
This award honors a licensed sports medicine professional whose work has significantly impacted their field.
Nutritional Research Achievement Award
Recognizing breakthrough contributions to the industry, the Nutritional Research Achievement Award is given annually to recognize individuals in the field of nutritional research for athletes.
Terry J. Housh Outstanding Young Investigator Award
Named for Dr. Terry J. Housh, the Outstanding Young Investigator Award recognizes an up-and-coming researcher who has been in the field for seven years or less and has made an impact in their field of study.
William J. Kraemer Outstanding Sport Scientist Award
Named for Dr. William J. Kraemer, this award honors exemplary contributions and breakthroughs in the field of applied science and sport science.
TACTICAL Awards - awarded at TACTICAL Annual Training
Tactical Strength and Conditioning Professional of the Year Award
The Tactical Strength and Conditioning Professional of the Year Award is awarded to the coach, researcher, tactical professional, educator, or administrator whose influential contributions to the field measurably result in its advancement in a way that exceeds the outcomes achieved by others.
Tactical Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year Award
The Tactical Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year Award is awarded to the coach whose influence within his or her assigned tactical (military, law enforcement, fire and rescue) setting exceeds that of peers. Achieving this influence can be the result of one or multiple coaching related accomplishments such as but not limited to measurable performance improvements or injury reduction, program creation, advancement through innovation, and other initiatives that enhance wellness, health, and performance at the local level.
Peer Award Timeline
June – Nominations open.
October – Nominations close and nominees are contacted to submit award requirements.
December – nominees are required to have all materials submitted and NSCA staff will evaluate that eligibility requirements have been met before submitting to the Committee, SIG, or Task Force.
March – Committee, SIG, or Task Force should vote and decide the winner and will submit the winners name to the National Office.
April – Notifications to nominees will be sent by the National Office and press announcements will be coordinated.
July – Awards presented at the NSCA National Conference.
