Four award recipients each received a $1,000 prize during the 2026 Deseret News High School Sports Awards

SALT LAKE CITY, UT (June 9, 2026) — America First Credit Union recognized Utah’s top high school athletes and coaches Monday evening during the 2026 Deseret News High School Sports Awards at The Grand America Hotel.

Now in its fourth year supporting the event, America First sponsors the Athlete of the Year and Coach of the Year awards. Each recipient received a $1,000 cash prize and gift basket courtesy of America First Credit Union.

“What stands out about these athletes and coaches is that their impact extends far beyond wins and championships,” said Brett Greenwell, AFCU’s vice president of member and partner relations. “They are leaders, role models, and examples of what can be accomplished through commitment, perseverance, and teamwork. We’re proud to help recognize their achievements and the bright future ahead of them.”

More than 170 student-athletes representing 64 schools from across Utah were honored during the annual awards program, which celebrates excellence in athletics, academics, and leadership.

2026 America First award recipients

- Male Athlete of the Year: Jackson Spencer, Herriman High School

Spencer earned the honor after an extraordinary year in cross country and track and field. He finished the cross-country season undefeated, set multiple state records, and was named the 2025-26 boys cross country national Gatorade Player of the Year. He will continue his running career at Brigham Young University.

- Female Athlete of the Year: Milika Satuala, Bountiful High School

Satuala capped off her high school career by earning Ms. Basketball honors and helping lead Bountiful to its third state championship. A standout in both basketball and volleyball, she recently began her collegiate basketball career at the University of Utah.

- Male Coach of the Year: Troy Norris, Panguitch High School

Norris was recognized following a remarkable 34-year coaching career that included 46 combined state championships in track and field and volleyball.

- Female Coach of the Year: Mindy Ricks, Corner Canyon High School

Ricks earned the award after leading Corner Canyon’s girls volleyball team to a 23-6 record and the 6A state championship.

America First Credit Union is proud to support programs that recognize achievement, leadership, and dedication among Utah’s youth. Through community partnerships, educational initiatives and the America First Credit Union Foundation, the credit union continues to invest in opportunities that help young people succeed both on and off the field.

Congratulations to all of the student-athletes, coaches and finalists recognized during the 2026 Deseret News High School Sports Awards.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION
Founded in 1939, America First Credit Union has grown from a single branch serving military personnel and federal employees into one of the strongest and most progressive credit unions in the country. The credit union is the largest in Utah and has 117 locations across Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah. It is also the fifth largest credit union in America with more than 1.5 million members, and the sixth largest in assets with more than $24 billion. America First Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative dedicated to building communities and helping members do more with their money. Learn more at americafirst.com.