Elle Goldman
Elle Goldman, an 8th grader at Meigs Academic Magnet School, has been recognized with the NFHS Student-Athlete Award of Excellence, a distinction presented by the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA) and the National Federation of State High School Associations. The honor highlights Elle’s commitment to sportsmanship, exemplified by her actions following a recent middle school girls basketball loss.
After the game, Elle took the initiative to gather her team and publicly acknowledge each player and manager, sharing specific reasons she valued their contributions—regardless of individual stats or playing time. Her effort to uplift her teammates despite the defeat underscored her belief that every member of the team deserves respect and appreciation.
As captain, Elle consistently leads by example, fostering an environment where unity and acceptance are prioritized. Her approach has created a stronger team dynamic, emphasizing collective effort over personal achievements.
The NFHS Student-Athlete Award of Excellence celebrates student-athletes who embody the principles of integrity, respect, and leadership. Elle’s actions after the game—focused on positivity and inclusivity—represent these values well.
School athletics provide a unique opportunity to learn teamwork and resilience. By emphasizing respect for peers, athletes like Elle set a standard for how participation in sports should look: not just about competition, but about growth and support. Encouraging young athletes to follow Elle’s example—prioritizing team cohesion and kindness—can shape a culture where everyone feels they belong.
Elle isn’t the only extracurricular standout—she also plays in the band, showing her dedication to community through diverse interests. Her balanced approach reflects qualities schools aim to nurture: commitment, empathy, and the wisdom to recognize the strength in others.
Whether in sports or elsewhere, taking a simple moment to appreciate others, even in tough situations, makes a difference. Let’s all take a page from Elle’s playbook—because leading with compassion isn’t just good sportsmanship, it’s good citizenship.
Nominate a student in your school today! Please use the form linked below to share a story about a student-athlete you know who has demonstrated exceptional sportsmanship, integrity, and ethics. If you have any questions about the award or the nomination process, please contact Courtney Brunetz (cbrunetz@tssaa.org).
