In late December, Brindley Duncan, Mary Margaret Hatfield and Bailey Albert were awarded the National Federation of State High School (NFHS) Award of Excellence for Sportsmanship, Ethics and Integrity.

In tandem with the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA), NFHS aims to applaud student-athletes who take extraordinary steps to manifest exceptional character in their athletic pursuits. According to the NFHS, these athletes not only influence their teammates but also everyone around them, creating a positive environment in their school.

Junior Brindley Duncan was the recipient of this award for Tullahoma High School. She was shocked when she learned that she had received this honor.

“This award means a lot because it showcases more than my athletic talent,” Duncan said. “I want to embody someone who displays both strong athletic and personal characteristics. I believe you can have all the talent in the world, but your attitude and behavior are what will help you go farther on the field and in life.”

Each TCS middle school had an eighth-grade award winner. East Middle School’s Bailey Albert and West Middle School’s Mary Margaret Hatfield were honored by the NFHS.

“This award truly means a lot to me,” Albert said. “Every day, I try to display good sportsmanship, respect, integrity and leadership. I’m honored to receive this award.”

“I’m completely overwhelmed with emotion right now, and this is truly an honor,” Hatfield added. “It means everything to me that my hard work, dedication, and values have been recognized on such a big stage. I’m really grateful to my teammates, coaches, and family for supporting me every step of the way.”

TCS Director of Schools, Dr. Catherine Stephens, offered her congratulations to the three TCS athletes.

“These three athletes truly embody the best of the best with their talent and sportsmanship,” Dr. Stephens said. “This award measures so much more than athletic skill. I am incredibly proud of their success, not only in athletics but also in the classroom, their schools and in the Tullahoma community as a whole.”