Idaho Schools Compete for $5,000 Sportsmanship Award

New IHSAA program offers cash prizes for schools promoting positive behavior

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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High schools across Idaho will have the opportunity to compete for a $5,000 donation as part of a statewide sportsmanship campaign launched by the Idaho High School Activities Association. The initiative, titled 'A GEM State of Mind – Give Everyone Their Moment,' is supported through a new multiyear partnership with COUNTRY Financial.

Why it matters

The program aims to promote positive behavior and recognize leadership among student-athletes, teams, and coaches in Idaho, addressing concerns about sportsmanship and character development in high school sports.

The details

As part of the campaign, schools can participate in the Give Everyone Their Moment Sportsmanship Contest, which provides schools the opportunity to vote for and win a $5,000 donation. The initiative will also recognize teams that demonstrate strong sportsmanship through the Sportsmanship Team of the Tournament Program. Additionally, the Coaches in the Classroom Program will recognize coaches who support student success beyond athletics, providing selected coaches with quarterly classroom donations of $500.

  • The new IHSAA sportsmanship program was launched in March 2026.

The players

Idaho High School Activities Association

The organization that oversees high school sports and activities in the state of Idaho.

COUNTRY Financial

The insurance and financial services company that is supporting the new IHSAA sportsmanship program through a multiyear partnership.

Playfly Sports

The sports marketing and media company that brokered the sponsorship arrangements between IHSAA and COUNTRY Financial.

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What’s next

The Give Everyone Their Moment Sportsmanship Contest will take place later this year, with the winning school receiving a $5,000 donation.

The takeaway

This new IHSAA program demonstrates a commitment to fostering sportsmanship, character development, and student success in Idaho high school sports, providing financial incentives for schools and coaches to prioritize positive behavior and leadership.