Varsity Brands School Spirit Awards to Kick Off on National School Spirit Day

Varsity Brands is celebrating the power of spirit with the launch of its 2017 Varsity Brands School Spirit Awards, kicking off on National School Spirit Day on September 16. Through this program, Varsity Brands aims to elevate the student experience and promote school spirit nationwide.

The second annual Varsity Brands School Spirit Awards will celebrate the very best of America’s High Schools. Over $100,000 will be awarded from Varsity Brands to honor students, staff and school organizations that make a positive and lasting impact on their schools and communities. The $25,000 grand prize award will be given to America’s Most Spirited High School.

High schools are encouraged to participate in National School Spirit Day by hosting a pep rally, announcing this year’s award categories to their school and starting to create their video submissions for the America’s Most Spirited High School Contest.

“Varsity Brands is constantly striving to find ways to raise levels of school spirit and personal pride. We want to recognize and honor those who make a positive impact on our communities through their commitment to school spirit,” said Jeff Webb, Chairman of Varsity Brands.

"Varsity Brands understands the strong connection between school spirit and student achievement,” said Mathew Rubel, CEO of Varsity Brands. "We're proud to celebrate leaders in schools nationwide who inspire excellence in their students and peers."

The 2017 Varsity Brands School Spirit Awards will consist of 23 awards in three categories; student, staff and school (Example categories include Student to Celebrate Award, Mighty Mascot Award, Legacy Coaching Award, Best School Tradition Award and more. Click HERE to learn about the various categories). Entrants must be nominated by a student, colleague or community member, and submissions must include a 500-word essay outlining why the nominee is deserving of this award, one letter of recommendation, photos and other supporting materials demonstrating the nominee's work.

The $25,000 grand prize award, America’s Most Spirited High School, will honor one high school that demonstrates unparalleled school spirit and community pride. (Click HERE for submission details.)

Varsity Brands has conducted extensive research showing a direct connection between school spirit, community and school involvement, academic achievement and self-confidence. According to a Harris Poll and subsequent white paper published in 2014, 92 percent of principals agree that high school spirit is tied to high academic achievement, and 90 percent of students with high levels of school spirit are more likely to be leaders.

To learn more about National School Spirit Day and the Varsity Brands School Spirit Awards, please visit varsitycorp.wpengine.com.