This year, the USA Climbing Foundation is giving our community the chance to celebrate the people who are shaping the future of climbing.

Nominations are officially open for the inaugural USA Climbing Foundation Awards, a celebration of the athletes, coaches, volunteers, teams, and leaders who help our sport thrive both on and off the wall. The awards program is built around two categories, each recognizing a different kind of impact.

Community Awards

The Community Awards honor the people at the heart of our sport. Six awards are open for nominations, including Coach of the Year, Routesetter of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Collegiate Team of the Year, Youth Team of the Year, and the Fair Play Award, which recognizes those who lead with integrity and sportsmanship.

Nominations are open to all USA Climbing members, donors, and staff. Whether you’re an athlete, parent, coach, volunteer, official, or supporter, your voice matters and you’re welcome to submit nominations for as many deserving individuals or teams as you’d like.

Know someone who deserves to be recognized? Nominate them for a Community Award

Leadership Awards

These awards recognize extraordinary contributions to USA Climbing and the sport at large, from our highest annual honors to recognition of the athletes, partners, and advocates driving climbing forward. Explore the full slate of honors and learn how leadership recipients are selected. Explore the Leadership Awards

How It Works

Nominations are open now through July 31. From August 14 through September 1, the community votes to help determine recipients. Award recipients will be notified on September 10 and celebrated in person at the USA Climbing Foundation Awards Celebration during the Boulder World Climbing Series, October 16-18.

Not a member yet? Join today!

Nominating and voting are open to USA Climbing members and donors. Joining our community is one of the best ways to have a say in who gets recognized while supporting the athletes and programs that make it all possible. Become a Member