The 10th Annual Sports Commission Awards is set for June 21 at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds E*Plex.

Over the years, the Sports Commission, alongside managing partners at the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame, has handed out 275 awards to individuals and teams representing 62 schools and five businesses or organizations in southwest Missouri.

The Sports Commission Awards event has grown significantly. Attendance in 2013 was about 350; this year, about 1,000 are expected.

We look forward to growing this tradition and acknowledging all of the best-of-the-best upcoming athletes in the region for years to come.

A special thank you goes to Elliott Lodging, the title sponsor since the event began.

Sponsorships, table purchases, and congratulatory advertising are still available. If you or your business is interested in celebrating the area's best high school athletes, email the Sports Commission staff at sports@springfieldmo.org.