2026 Awards Timeline

July 1-31: Nomination period
August 14 – September 1: Voting period
September 10: Recipients announced and notified
October 16-18: Awards Celebration at Boulder World Climbing Series

Community Award Process

Step 1: Nomination
USA Climbing members, staff, and donors are invited to submit nominations recognizing individuals and teams who have made a meaningful impact on the climbing community. Multiple nominations may be submitted, and nominees may be considered for more than one award category.

Step 2: Voting
USA Climbing members, staff, and donors vote to help determine award recipients. Voting recognizes individuals and teams who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, service, sportsmanship, and community impact throughout the year.

Step 3: Recognition
Award recipients are celebrated during the USA Climbing Foundation Awards Celebration.

2026 Community Awards:

Coach of the Year
Awarded to a coach who has made a significant impact on athlete development, team culture, and the broader climbing community. Considerations include athlete success, mentorship, innovation, and leadership.

Nominate a Coach

Routesetter of the Year
Honors a routesetter who has elevated the athlete and spectator experience through creativity, fairness, and technical excellence. May include competition routesetting or impactful work in the commercial/gym setting that supports the sport.

Nominate a Routesetter

Volunteer of the Year
Recognizes an individual whose time, energy, and commitment have meaningfully advanced USA Climbing’s mission. This award honors those who serve selflessly at competitions, in the community, or behind the scenes.

Nominate a Volunteer

Collegiate Team of the Year
Recognizes a collegiate climbing team that has demonstrated exceptional performance, leadership, and community throughout the season. Consideration includes competitive success, team culture, sportsmanship, and contributions to the growth of collegiate climbing.

Nominate a Collegiate Team

Youth Team of the Year
Honors a youth climbing team that has exemplified excellence both on and off the wall through athletic achievement, teamwork, and positive community impact. Consideration includes competition results, athlete development, inclusivity, and team culture.

Nominate a Youth Team

Fair Play Award
Recognizes an athlete, coach, volunteer, or community member who exemplifies integrity, respect, and sportsmanship within the climbing community. This award honors those who lead by example through fairness, positivity, and support for others both in and out of competition.

Nominate an Individual