CHARLOTTE—A deserving male or female high school athlete who is a senior and excels in their sport, in the classroom and in the community could be eligible for nomination for the Carolina Panthers Community Captain Program.

     The Carolina Panthers believe that there is more to being a great leader than simply having great talent.  The Carolina Panthers Community Captain program recognizes outstanding high school student-athletes in North and South Carolina who have demonstrated strong leadership skills both on and off the field.  The program encourages these outstanding young men and women to continue to be leaders and role models in their communities.

     During the high school football season, the Panthers will honor ten student-athletes who excel both on the field and in the classroom, as well as play an active role in their respective communities.  In order to be considered for the Carolina Panthers Community Captain award, a player must meet the following criteria:

• Mandatory 3.0 GPA or higher
• Community service record (i.e. camp instructor, participation in school food drive/toys for tots program, mission trips, visits to nursing homes/hospitals, involvement with Boys & Girls Club/YMCA programs or other service projects).
• Varsity athlete

    "One of the expectations of playing in the NFL, and in particular for the Carolina Panthers, is the desire and commitment by players to give back to the community," said Riley Fields, Carolina Panthers director of community relations. "We want to cultivate off-the-field leaders who will carry that ethic with them into adulthood once their college careers are over."

    Winners are honored during an on-field ceremony at a Panthers home game and receive a personalized Carolina Panthers game ball.

     If you know a student-athlete that is worth considering for the Carolina Panthers Community Captain award, please nominate them today or inform the school’s head coach, assistant coaches, principal, or athletic director. 

    Here is the link with additional information and the nomination form: Carolina Panthers Community Captain award