The best food. The best company. The best cause.
By Doug “Doc” Stauffer
More than 1,200 people filled the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center for the 57th Annual All Sports Association Awards Banquet—an evening that has become a signature event across Okaloosa and the surrounding counties.
If you love sports and need a shot in the arm for America’s future…
If you love reconnecting with old friends and making new ones…
If you enjoy watching one of the greatest live auctions anywhere on the Emerald Coast…
All Sports Banquet is the place to be.
From business leaders and coaches to educators, elected officials, former pros, and rising stars, it truly was a “Who’s Who” of our region—all gathered for one purpose: celebrating athletic excellence and strengthening youth opportunities through sports.
A Hall of Fame Message
NFL Hall of Famer Derrick Brooks served as the keynote speaker, delivering a powerful message on leadership, perseverance, discipline, and service. His words resonated deeply, perfectly capturing the spirit of the evening—success on the field means little without character off it.
The Association extended sincere thanks to Brooks for not only sharing his journey, but for continuing to invest in communities and young athletes long after his playing days.
Honoring a Legacy of Service
One of the most meaningful moments of the night was the presentation of the 2026 Colonel Al Byrne Award to Taylor Grigsby of the Okaloosa County Tax Collector’s Office. The award recognizes individuals who uplift local youth through athletic support, mentorship, and strong community values. Taylor’s dedication reflects the enduring legacy of Colonel Byrne and his lifelong commitment to young people.
Celebrating the Region’s Best
Since 1970, the All Sports Association has brought together the finest athletes in Northwest Florida. Each February, the banquet honors the area’s top high school, collegiate, amateur, professional, and Special Olympic athletes.
This year’s honorees included:
- Wuerffel Trophy: Michael Taaffe (University of Texas)
- Professional Award: Alex Ward (Las Vegas Raiders)
- Male Collegiate Award: Jayce Brown (LSU)
- Female Collegiate Award: Gracie Grant (Dallas Baptist University)
- Taylor Haugen Trophy: Harper Campbell (Niceville High School)
- Amateur Award: Coleman Borthwick (South Walton High School)
- Male Scholastic Award: Deacon Avery (Niceville High School)
- Female Scholastic Award: Izzy Douglas (Fort Walton Beach High School)
- Special Olympian Award: Ethan McCormick (Navarre High School graduate)
The Taylor Haugen Trophy, established in 2009 in memory of Taylor Reid Haugen, continues to remind our community of the motto that defines the award: Don’t Quit. Never Give Up.
More Than a Banquet
The All Sports Association is made up of dues-paying volunteers whose mission is simple but powerful: raise funds for local youth-oriented nonprofit organizations with an emphasis on sports programs.
Through the annual banquet and summer golf tournament, the Association supports:
- Boys & Girls Club of the Emerald Coast
- Special Olympics Florida – Okaloosa
- Eleanor J. Johnson Youth Center
- Okaloosa Walton FCA
For more than five decades, this event has proven that athletics is about more than trophies. It is about character, discipline, teamwork, and opportunity.
The All Sports Association believers extend a heartfelt thanks to every attendee, sponsor, volunteer, and supporter. This night would not be possible without those who believe in the power of sports to transform lives beyond the field. And judging by the crowd of 1,200 strong—Northwest Florida still believes.
