College Football History Made: BYU Head Coach Kalani Sitake Honored with NFF Medal of Honor for Legendary Leadership and Excellence
In a historic moment for college football, Brigham Young University head coach Kalani Sitake has been awarded the prestigious National Football Foundation (NFF) Medal of Honor, a distinction reserved for leaders whose influence extends far beyond the gridiron. Sitake, who has been at the helm of BYU’s football program since 2016, becomes one of the rare figures in college sports to receive this honor, solidifying his reputation as not just a coach, but a mentor, role model, and builder of lasting legacies.
The NFF Medal of Honor, considered one of the highest accolades in American football, is presented to individuals who embody the principles of leadership, integrity, and excellence both on and off the field. For Sitake, the award represents recognition of a career defined not only by wins and bowl appearances but also by his ability to instill values in his players that transcend the game itself.
“Coach Sitake is the embodiment of what college football should be about,” said NFF Chairman Archie Manning during the ceremony. “He’s not only a proven leader in competition, but he has consistently shown an unwavering commitment to character, family, and community. His impact on young men and his contribution to the sport are unmatched.”
Since taking over BYU’s program, Sitake has guided the Cougars through transformative years, including their transition into the Big 12 Conference, all while maintaining a culture of respect, humility, and resilience. Under his leadership, BYU has produced NFL-caliber talent, earned national rankings, and secured marquee victories. Yet, what sets him apart is his insistence on emphasizing faith, education, and service as equal pillars of his players’ development.
Former and current players often describe Sitake as a “father figure” who teaches life lessons alongside X’s and O’s. His coaching philosophy reflects his personal journey — as the first Tongan head coach in FBS history, Sitake has spoken often about representation, perseverance, and the responsibility of being a trailblazer. His story resonates with countless communities, proving that football can be a platform for empowerment and inclusivity.
BYU athletic director Tom Holmoe praised Sitake’s achievement as a milestone not just for the program, but for college football as a whole. “Kalani’s Medal of Honor is about more than coaching accolades — it’s about the way he lives, the way he inspires, and the legacy he is building every single day,” Holmoe said.
For Sitake, the award is both humbling and motivating. In his acceptance speech, he emphasized gratitude to his players, assistants, and family. “This is not just my honor,” he said. “It belongs to every young man I’ve coached, every family that trusted me with their sons, and every fan who has believed in BYU football. Leadership is about service, and I will continue to serve.”
As the Cougars prepare for another demanding season, Sitake’s recognition by the NFF stands as a reminder that college football’s greatest victories are not measured solely in points or trophies but in lives impacted and legacies created. In receiving the Medal of Honor, Kalani Sitake has etched his name into history as a leader whose excellence transcends the game.
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