Cannon Dowd, a senior at West High School in Knoxville, is being honored with the NFHS Student-Athlete Award of Excellence for his response to a significant personal challenge and the example he set for his peers.
During his sophomore year, Dowd, the school’s quarterback, suffered a serious hand injury in a weightlifting accident. The incident required surgery and extensive rehabilitation, threatening not only his athletic participation but also his ability to perform routine tasks. In a school essay reflecting on the experience, Dowd described the frustration of recovery and the self-doubt he faced, even considering stepping away from football at one point.
What stood out, however, was his decision to persevere. Through consistent effort, he worked his way back to the team. More importantly, his visible determination during this process had a clear effect on those around him. Teammates noted that watching him overcome his setback motivated them to push through their own difficulties.
In addition to football, Dowd is an International Baccalaureate Diploma candidate and serves on the Mayor of Knoxville Youth Council Board.
The TSSAA and the National Federation of State High School Associations present the Award of Excellence to highlight conduct that reflects the core values of educational athletics. Dowd’s experience is a reminder that school sports are about more than winning; they are a setting for developing resilience, responsibility, and leadership. The way a student-athlete handles adversity—whether an injury, a loss, or academic pressure—can quietly inspire an entire team and reinforce the positive lessons that athletics are meant to teach. Dowd’s example is one worth following.
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).
