Kentucky high school seniors who participate in both athletics and agriculture can now apply for one of six scholarships through the 2026 Kentucky Ag Athlete of the Year program.
The initiative is a collaboration between the Kentucky High School Athletic Association and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.
The program recognizes student-athletes who demonstrate the work ethic and dedication valued in both sports and agriculture. Applicants must be involved in Kentucky agriculture, compete in at least one KHSAA-sanctioned sport or activity during the 2025-26 school year, be graduating seniors, and be accepted to a college, university, or trade school.
Students do not have to pursue an agriculture major. Preference is given to those attending Kentucky institutions, though out-of-state schools will be considered for specialized agricultural degrees.
Two seniors — one male and one female — will be selected as Outstanding Kentucky Ag Athletes of the Year and will each receive a $2,000 scholarship. Four additional seniors — two males and two females — will be named Kentucky Ag Athletes of the Year and will each receive $1,000. All scholarship funds are paid directly to the students’ chosen postsecondary institutions.
Winners will be announced during the 2026 UK HealthCare Boys’ Sweet Sixteen basketball tournament at Rupp Arena. Scholarships are funded through voluntary donations made by Kentucky motorists to the Department of Agriculture’s “Ag Tag” program when renewing farm vehicle license plates, with no state tax dollars involved.
Applications are due Dec. 31 and must be submitted online at form.jotform.com/253065526181051.
