The Vanguard Award

The Vanguard Award was established in 2011 by Vanguard Attorneys and Swope, Rodante P.A. to recognize local student athletes and coaches for their contributions on the field, in the classroom, and in the community. Each month, between August and May, a Hillsborough County high school student athlete will be selected as the Vanguard Award Student Athlete of the month, and a $1,000 award will be presented to that student’s school. Each year in July, the Vanguard Award will be presented to two Coaches of the Year – one coach of male athletics and one coach of female athletics – for their contributions over the previous year.

We want to thank all of the coaches and athletic directors who provide valuable and important activities that build the foundation for a lifetime of dedication and achievement. We also want to thank all of the student athletes who dedicate their time and energy to bettering themselves and their community.

After nominations are submitted, supporters of the student athletes and coaches can vote for their favorite student athletes and coaches. Votes will be considered by the Selection Committee, as well as consideration for contributions on the field, in the classroom, and in the community. The Vanguard Award winners are determined by the Vanguard Award Selection Committee, made up of attorneys from Vanguard Attorneys and Swope, Rodante P.A., as well as other local leaders, including Preston Jackson of Big County Preps.

We are excited to provide valuable resources and activities for local student athletes and high schools, and want to thank you for your interest and support.

We will take nominations for student athlete of the month (September-May) and coaches of the year (June) during the first two weeks of the month, using the form below. Coaches, please check with your athletic directors for more specific information on nominations. If you have any questions, you can contact a member of the Vanguard Award Selection Committee at (813) 273-0017 (Jessica or Marc Matthews)  PLACE YOUR NOMINATIONS HERE…NOW!