Members Area

Distinguished Contributions to Science Award

Funded by the AASP Foundation Endowment

The Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP) Distinguished Contributions to Science Award recognizes an AASP member who has made sustained and distinguished empirical and/or theoretical scientific contributions to the field of sport and performance psychology (SEP). This individual may serve as a role model for our early career professional and student members pursuing research careers.

The recipient of the award is given a plaque presented at the AASP Annual Conference, a cash award of $500, and a waived AASP Annual Conference fee in the year the award is conferred. In addition, the recipient is invited to give an address related to their scholarly contributions at the AASP conference the following year. Award recipients will be asked to serve a three-year term as a reviewer on this award committee beginning the following year.

Award Criteria

  • Sustained and meaningful contributions to the theoretical scientific base and/or the professional practice knowledge base in the field of sport and/or performance psychology. These objectives can be acheived through initiatives such as empirical research, peer-reviewed publications, and presentations at national/international conferences. This award is intended to recognize longevity in scientific contributions and should be considered recognition of a lifetime of achievement.
  • Significant theoretical and/or empirical contributions that impact the science of SEP psychology, including impact on colleagues and students. The setting in which the nominee made the contributions may include sport, exercise, or performance domains (e.g., with first responders, dance, military, etc.).
  • Recognized as a contributing scientist by other prominent SEP scientists/researchers.
  • Professional Membership in AASP for at least 10 years, with three consecutive years at the time of nomination and at least 10 years post-graduation from one's highest degree.
  • Nominees are expected to have followed the AASP Ethics Code in their professional and personal behavior. It will be up to the committee to determine how much weight this guideline has on the overall decision. 

Submission Guidelines

    A nomination letter by an AASP member is required. Self-nominations are welcome. The nominating member will serve as the candidate’s sponsor for the award and should submit the nomination letter and all supporting materials electronically per the AASP Foundation Award submission guidelines. The nomination letter (3-page maximum) should address the following:
    • The general nature of the nominee’s scientific contributions.
    • The most important theoretical and/or empirical contributions.
    • The impact of the nominee’s contributions on the science of SEP psychology, including the impact that the work has had on the work of students and colleagues.
    • The stature of the nominee as a scientist vis-à-vis other prominent scientists in the field of SEP psychology.
  • The nomination package should also include: a current Curriculum Vitae, two letters of support, and up to three electronic copies of significant publications.
  • Diversity of all types is encouraged, including non-U.S. based members.
  • The Review Committee will consist of Foundation Committee members who have a strong science background. These individuals may also include past award winners or additional external members as needed. 
  • In the absence of a nominee who is deemed deserving of the award by the Foundation Committee, the award may be withheld.

*Deadline for this award: March 1 of each year.