1. Introduction

• Purpose of the National High School Football Hall of Fame
• Importance of recognizing excellence at the high school level

2. Eligibility Criteria

2.1. Player Criteria

• High School Career Excellence: Outstanding performance over a high school football career, including statistical achievements, leadership qualities, and recognition (e.g., All-State selections, player of the year awards).
• Sportsmanship and Integrity: Demonstrated high moral character both on and off the field, akin to the character clause in professional and college halls of fame.
• Post-High School Conduct: Maintaining a positive image and impact in the community and in any subsequent careers, whether related to football or not.

2.2. Coach Criteria

• Winning Record: Significant win-loss records, championships won at the state level, and other competitive achievements.
• Longevity and Commitment: A minimum period of dedication to high school football coaching, promoting continuity and stability in the programs led.
• Innovation: Contributions to the strategic development of the game at the high school level.
• Development of Players: Success in promoting player growth, securing scholarships for athletes, and potentially moving players to collegiate or professional levels.
• Character and Influence: Impact on the character and development of players, including fostering sportsmanship, teamwork, and discipline.

3. Process of Nomination and Selection

• Nomination Process: Open nominations from the public, with specific emphasis on nominations from peers, community members, and sports historians.
• Screening Committee: Formation of a committee including former high school coaches, players, sports journalists, and educators to review nominations.
• Selection Criteria: Detailed metrics for quantifying achievements and contributions, including a points system for different accolades and achievements.
• Voting Process: A combination of committee voting and possible public voting for final selections.

4. Categories of Induction

• Players
• Coaches
• Contributors: Non-coaching staff who have made significant contributions to high school football, such as administrators, sports journalists, and game officials.
• Teams

5. Induction Ceremony

• Annual Event: Organizing an annual ceremony to celebrate new inductees.
• Scholarship and Grants: Introduction of scholarships or grants for current high school football players or programs as part of the ceremony.

6. Post-Induction Engagement

• Alumni Network: Establishing an alumni network for inductees to contribute to the ongoing development of high school football.
• Community Programs: Involvement of inductees in community outreach and development programs, leveraging their influence for positive impact.

7. Maintenance of Records and History

• Digital Archive: Development of a comprehensive digital archive of inductees, including their achievements, biographies, and contributions to the sport.
• Educational Programs: Utilizing the Hall of Fame as an educational tool for current high school players to learn about the history of the game and the values it promotes.

Conclusion

The establishment of a National High School Football Hall of Fame serves not only to honor individual excellence and contribution to the sport at the high school level but also to inspire current and future generations of players and coaches. By acknowledging the unique challenges and achievements of high school football, this Hall of Fame would elevate the sport's significance in the broader athletic and educational communities.