Johnny Sharpe Memorial Award

Celebrating Character, Commitment, and the Joy of the Game

The JRS Foundation, a tax-deductible 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is proud to announce the launch of its mission to honor legacy through opportunity. Learn more below and apply for this unique scholarship.

Honoring the Legacy of Johnny Sharpe

In memory of Johnny Sharpe—a devoted mentor and beloved coach who dedicated his life to empowering young athletes—we proudly announce the formation of the JRS Foundation, Inc., and the Johnny Sharpe Memorial Award. Johnny’s passion for baseball and softball, and more importantly, his profound impact on the lives of countless youth and their families, will never be forgotten. 

This Award celebrates Johnny’s legacy by providing opportunities for aspiring college-bound baseball and softball players. It ensures that his dedication to sportsmanship, community, and joyful perseverance continues to inspire future generations—both on and off the field.

About the Award

To ensure the long-term impact of the JRS Foundation, we aim to raise an initial $50,000. This seed funding will sustain the Foundation for at least the next decade, allowing us to honor Johnny Sharpe’s legacy year after year.

Each year, a $5,000 award will be given to a local High School Senior who will be continuing their baseball or softball journey at the collegiate level.

This is not a "best player" award—it honors the core values Johnny exemplified throughout his life and coaching:

  • Teamwork

  • Generosity

  • Grit

  • Dedication

  • Hard work

  • Joy and fun in the game

Eligibility:

  • Must be a graduating high school senior

  • Must be committed to play baseball or softball at a recognized college or university

  • Must have a minimum GPA of 3.0

  • Must be entering freshman year of college

How to Apply:

  • A completed application form (Apply online or complete this pdf and email to: awards@jrsfoundationinc.org)

  • A personal statement (500–750 words)

  • Two letters of recommendation from a coach, teacher, or mentor

  • Proof of college commitment (optional)

  • We will be accepting applications from January 1, through April 1. The award winner will be announced on June 1.

A Life That Touched Many

Johnny Sharpe was a beloved coach, mentor, and multi-sport athlete whose legacy continues to shape the lives of countless young athletes.

A proud graduate of Teaneck High School, Johnny was captain of both the baseball and soccer teams. He went on to play college baseball at Northeast Missouri State, where his passion for the game deepened and set the stage for a lifelong commitment to coaching.

After college, Johnny began what would become a remarkable coaching career—guiding hundreds of baseball and softball players across all levels, including collegiate athletes. His impact extended far beyond the field.

In July 2025, Johnny passed away at age 59 after a sudden illness and diagnosis of a rare form of cancer. His loss was deeply felt by the community he served so generously.

Anyone who had the privilege of knowing Johnny remembers his warmth, humor, and the creative, authentic way he connected with others—especially young athletes. He had a gift for making people feel seen, supported, and inspired. If Johnny coached you, chances are you’ll never forget him.

The Johnny Sharpe Memorial Award honors that legacy—ensuring his values of teamwork, joy, and dedication live on in the next generation of student-athletes.

How You Can Help

We invite all who knew Johnny—or those moved by his mission—to contribute to the Johnny Sharpe Memorial Award. Your support will help honor his memory and offer life-changing opportunities to the athletes he believed in so deeply.

Let’s keep Johnny’s spirit alive—with every swing of the bat, every laugh in the dugout, and every dream this award helps make possible.

All donations are tax deductible.

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