The Salem-Keizer High School Sports Booster Club honored outstanding athletes, coaches, and community members at the 2026 Beacons awards on June 9 at Elsinore Theatre. This annual event, which began in 2017, acknowledges those who have significantly impacted high school athletics in the Salem-Keizer area. The Booster Club aims to boost athletic participation and recently donated $2,500 to each high school in the district. Awards for Athlete of the Year were given to standout individuals across various sports, with Andrew Pickett recognized as Coach of the Year.

By the Numbers
  • The Booster Club donated $2,500 to each of the Salem-Keizer district's high schools.
  • 2026 Beacons recognized 23 Athlete of the Year winners across multiple sports.
Yes, But

While the awards celebrate athletic achievements and community contributions, some may question the impact of financial donations on participation rates and whether they sufficiently address broader issues in school sports.

State of Play
  • North Salem鈥檚 Braxton Singleton and Sprague鈥檚 Brooke Friesen were named athletes of the year for their respective sports.
  • Community Beacons were awarded to four local figures recognized for their contributions to athletics.
What's Next

Future events may focus more on inclusivity and expanding access to athletics, especially for underrepresented groups in the community, driven by the success of the Beacons awards.

Bottom Line

The 2026 Beacons awards highlight the importance of community and support in promoting student athletics, underscoring the potential of collective efforts to enhance school sports programs.