Football & Community Awards

The Eugene D. Franklin Foundation proudly established the Football Awards Program in 2024 to recognize, honor, and elevate outstanding student-athletes who exemplify excellence on the field, in the classroom, and in their communities.

These prestigious awards are presented exclusively to high school athletes in:

Sebastian and Crawford County's, in Arkansas;

Brunswick, MD, Washington, Allegheny, and Garrett County's in Maryland.

The Foundation recognizes excellence in the following football categories:

• Offensive Player of the Year
• Defensive Player of the Year
• Offensive Lineman of the Year
• Special Teams Player of the Year
• Academic Excellence Award
• River Valley Most Valuable Player (Arkansas – Top Overall Honor)
• Maryland Most Valuable Player (Top Overall Honor)

The River Valley MVP and Maryland MVP represent the highest football honors awarded by the Foundation in their respective regions.
Each award celebrates leadership, character, discipline, work ethic, sportsmanship, and impact both on and off field and in the classroom. 

The Eugene D. Franklin Foundation recognizes exceptional leadership and service through its Community Awards program.

• Business Men and Women of the Year (4 Awards): Honors entrepreneurs and business leaders who excel in their industries while actively giving back to their communities.

• Victor Ramirez Valor of Freedom Award: Recognizes individuals who have served with honor in the Armed Forces, law enforcement, or as first responders.

• Mary E. Bowie Award (Highest Honor): Presented to a man or woman who has demonstrated extraordinary commitment to community service through government leadership, activism, or civic involvement.

These awards celebrate excellence, sacrifice, and lasting community impact.