National Football Foundation

The Mississippi Gulf Coast Chapter of the National Football Foundation receives tremendous support from the local high school community as athletic directors of the area high schools govern the chapter. The annual scholar-athlete banquet is the focus of the chapter's year.

Held in April, the banquet recognizes 18 student-athletes who have distinguished themselves by performance on the field and in the classroom. Every year, the audience is amazed at the commitment these young men show to their family, team, school and community. One overall winner is selected and receives a partial scholarship toward future education. The evening is further highlighted with the additional award presentations of Distinguished American, Contribution to Amateur Football, the "Rocky" Byrd Quarterback Award, the Frank "Twig" Branch Coaches Award and the Award of Merit.