Application window is open. Applications for this window are due by 11:59 pm December 15, 2025.
**Nominees must be an active member in good standing on a NE Swimming member club**
RECOGNITION CRITERIA:
Please use the following criteria as a guide for nominating an athlete for a Spotlight Award. Athletes don’t need to meet all components and recognition criteria should be applied and scaled appropriately for age and developmental stage of the athlete you are evaluating for recognition:
Excellence & Growth In-Water (Beyond Performance)
* Exceptional Dedication: Demonstrates consistent, high-level effort in every practice, pushing personal limits and showing unwavering commitment to improvement. This goes beyond just attendance to active engagement and a strong work ethic.
* Significant Personal Improvement: Shows notable progress in technique, understanding of strokes, and/or achieving significant time drops or personal bests relative to their individual potential. This includes a commitment to learning and adapting.
* Positive Training Culture: Actively contributes to a focused, supportive, and respectful training environment for all teammates, regardless of age or ability.
Impact & Character Outside the Water (Above & Beyond)
* Outstanding Sportsmanship & Leadership: Consistently models exemplary behavior, respect for coaches, officials, and competitors. Actively encourages and uplifts teammates (both younger and older), demonstrating true leadership through actions and attitude. This includes graciousness in both victory and defeat.
* Community Engagement & Service: Actively participates in efforts to support their club or the broader community outside of scheduled practices and meets. This could include:
Volunteering at club events, meets, or club fundraisers.
Mentoring younger swimmers or new club members.
Participation in community service initiatives (not necessarily swim-related, but demonstrating a commitment to giving back).
Promoting water safety or healthy lifestyles within their community.
* Exemplary Personal Conduct: Maintains strong academic standing (where applicable), demonstrates reliability, responsibility, and a positive influence in all aspects of their lives. Overcomes personal challenges with resilience and a positive outlook.