“The Hawk” Award replaced the Most Valuable Player Award (MVP) in the fall of 2012. To many, the MVP award had unfortunately become viewed as simply the individual on the team who has the best athletic skill and ability. However, this is not always the case. A MVP must also demonstrate sportsmanship, leadership, academic dedication, athletic dedication, and be committed to improving every aspect themselves as well as be committed to improving all those around them. The MIAA mission statement is as follows:
The mission of the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association is to serve member schools and the maximum number of their students by providing leadership and support for the conduct of interscholastic athletics which will enrich the educational experiences of all participants. The MIAA will promote activities that provide lifelong and life-quality learning experiences to students while enhancing their achievement of educational goals.
Nowhere in this mission statement is it stated that a school should be actively trying to produce professional level athletes, nor does it even place an emphasis on winning. While, of course both the MIAA and IACS do everything we can to develop and nurture athlete’s skills and abilities, both institutions also truly believe that athletics is an opportunity for all students to further their education. In the correct environment, athletics ultimately will help develop a well-rounded healthy young adult ready for all the world has to offer. This program is committed to athletic excellence but not at the expensive of academic excellence or behavioral excellence. We value all aspects of the student athlete equally, and all of these areas are taken into account when choosing the winner of The Hawk Award, and not just on one’s athletic skills and performance.