The Rocky Mountain Stoa Board believes our purpose for existence is to train students for the betterment of God’s kingdom, not just to crown a national champion. Prevalent philosophy in the world around us often operates with the mindset that we “train to compete,” but our purpose is to “compete to train.” Our true, God-given purpose should be to facilitate the making of great Christians. We desire students & parents to understand the surpassing value found in “iron sharpening iron” for one another’s increase of Christ-like character … something far greater than winning trophies that will soon be forgotten and lost. Therefore, the purpose of this award is to recognize a student who is “living out” this objective.
The central Bible verse that embodies the focus of this award is found in 1 Timothy 4:12: “Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” This verse provides five integral components for evaluating applicants. What has the student done to demonstrate that he/she is an example to other believers in: (1) Speech; (2) Conduct; (3) Love; (4) Faith; and (5) Purity.
Coaches nominate one student from their club to be considered for this award. As difficult as it may be, only one student per club may be nominated. The award recipient is selected by the Rocky Mountain Stoa Board.
Presentation of the award takes place at the CDC Tournament in Lakewood in March.