2026 AASPT Awards: Celebrate the Leaders Who Move Us Forward
Every year, the AASPT shines a spotlight on the clinicians, educators, and trailblazers who elevate the field of sports physical therapy—not just through skill, but through heart, vision, and unwavering dedication.
Now it's your turn to honor those who inspire you.
Nominate a colleague whose leadership, mentorship, or clinical excellence has made a lasting impact. Whether they’ve shaped the future of care, empowered the next generation, or led with integrity in the face of challenge, this is your chance to say: "You matter. We see you."
Award Categories
Explore the full list of awards, qualifications, and submission guidelines below. Each category reflects a unique facet of our profession—from innovation and education to service and advocacy.
Recognition Ceremony
Award recipients will be honored at the AASPT Awards Ceremony during the Combined Sections Meeting—a moment to celebrate together, reflect on our shared journey, and lift up those who lead the way.
How to Submit a Nomination
Ready to recognize someone exceptional? Here’s how to get started:
- Review the Award Criteria
Each award has its own set of qualifications and required materials. Be sure to read the details carefully to ensure your nominee meets the criteria. - Gather Required Documents
Depending on the award, you may need to submit items such as a CV, letters of support, etc. Check the specific award page for a full list. - Submit Your Nomination
Once you’ve collected everything, click the button below to access the AASPT Awards Submission Portal and complete your nomination.
Your submission helps honor the individuals who are shaping the future of sports physical therapy. Thank you for taking the time to lift them up.
Deadline for nominating: September 29th, 2025, 11:59pm EST
Ronald G. Peyton
To acknowledge and honor a member of the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy who has made a distinguished contribution to the specialty of sports physical therapy. In addition, the recipient is offered an opportunity to share his or her achievements and ideas with members through a brief lecture presented at the CSM.
Turner A. Blackburn Hall of Fame / Lifetime Achievement
To honor an American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy member whose contributions to the specialty of sports physical therapy through leadership, influence, and achievements have been demonstrated by frequent and sustained efforts for a period of not less than 25 years.
Lynn Wallace Clinical Education and Professional Development
To acknowledge an individual who has made significant contributions in the area of sports physical therapy education clinical education and professional development in the specialty area of sports physical therapy through excellence in clinical teaching.
Lifetime Excellence in Education
To acknowledge an individual who has made significant contributions in the area of sports physical therapy education through excellence in academic teaching clinical education, and/or professional development over an extended period of time (more than 10 years).
Excellence in Education
To acknowledge an individual who has made significant contributions in the area of sports physical therapy education through excellence in academic teaching.
Outstanding Service
To recognize a member of the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy who has made exceptional contributions in the area of service.
New Horizon
To recognize a member of the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy within their first seven (7) years of practice.
Outstanding Student
To acknowledge an individual who has made significant contributions in the area of sports physical therapy education through excellence in academic teaching.
Presidential Award of Merit
To acknowledge and honor an individual outside of the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy who has made a distinguished contribution to the specialty of sports physical therapy. Nominations for this award are provided only by the AASPT President.
Jack C. Hughston Sports Physician
To acknowledge and honor a physician who has made a distinguished contribution to the specialty of sports physical therapy.
Excellence in Research
To acknowledge and honor a physical therapist who has made a distinguished contribution to the specialty of sports physical therapy research.
Outstanding SIG ChairÂ
To acknowledge and honor a SIG chair who has shown great service to their SIG.
Recognize your colleagues for their leadership and dedication in physical therapy!
Those selected by the Awards Committee will be recognized during AASPT’s Awards Ceremony at the Combined Sections Meeting.
