KDA is accepting nominations for the 2025 Kentucky Athlete of the Year; students can apply online

Kentucky student-athletes who are majoring in agriculture are encouraged to apply for one of six scholarships and be recognized as the 2025 Kentucky Athlete of the Year.

The program is a partnership between the Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA) and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA).

“Discipline, teamwork, patience and goal setting are qualities that athletes use every time they step on the field or court. These are the same skills you use to succeed when you enter the agriculture industry,” said Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Schell. “We are pleased to join our partners at the KHSAA to once again honor these qualities and recognize the best young athletes and agriculturalists in the Commonwealth.”

To qualify, student-athletes must be involved in Kentucky agriculture; must participate in one or more KHSAA sports or athletic activities during the 2024-2025 school year; must be high school graduates; and must be accepted into a college, university, or vocational school upon graduation. An agriculture major is not required and preference will be given to Kentucky colleges; however, out-of-state schools will be considered if the applicant wishes to pursue a specialized degree in agriculture.

Two student-athletes, one male and one female, will be named Kentucky Outstanding Athlete of the Year and will receive $2,000 scholarships. Four student-athletes—two men and two women—will be awarded $1,000 scholarships as Kentucky Athletes of the Year. Winners will be announced at the 2025 UK HealthCare Boys Sweet Sixteen in March at Rupp Arena in Lexington.

Scholarships are paid to the higher education institution. Funding for the scholarships comes from the KDA Ag Tag program, which is supported by voluntary donations from Kentucky motorists when they purchase or renew their farm vehicle license plates. No state taxpayer money is used to fund the scholarships.

Student-athletes must apply online by December 31st. To apply, visit khsaa.org.

Kentucky Department of Agriculture