About Us

Since its beginning in 1986, the The Jim Thorpe Association has developed a broad range of civic and charity activities. These are divided into three major categories:

Awards & Scholarships

Each year, the Jim Thorpe Association honors athletes for their athletic and/or academic success and accomplishments. Awards such as:

Jim Thorpe Award - best college defensive back in the nation
High School All-State Player of the Year
More than $16,000 in student-athlete scholarships for college
Jim Thorpe Trophy for the NFL's most valuable player

Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame

Founded in 1986, the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame became part of the Jim Thorpe Association in 1989. A 20-name ballot of the state's greatest sports figures is selected each year from a list of almost 150 nominees. Selection is based on accomplishments in sports and identification with Oklahoma. Voters select at least two inductees, while the honors committee selects additional honorees.

Bright Path Youth Programs

Bright Path is the English translation of Jim Thorpe's Indian name, Wa-Tho-Huck. It is also the umbrella name for all Jim Thorpe Association activities affecting children in elementary school through high school. The Jim Thorpe Association's Bright Path Youth Program is designed to encourage young people to participate in positive activities that promote health, fitness, academics and self-esteem, making them far less likely to accept negative influences and lifestyles. The positive activities of the Bright Path Program include:

Artfest for Elementary Students
Children's Challenge Contest for Elementary Students
High School All-Star Football and Basketball Games
(Oklahoma City and Tulsa)
High School Awards Luncheon
Drug Free Youth and Red Ribbon Celebration
High School All-Star Art Team