Menu

National Scholar All-American

National Scholar All-American Program

Class of 2027 — Recognizing Excellence On and Off the River
Applications Open July 20 – August 10, 2026

The USRA National Scholar All-American Program honors graduating high school student-athletes who exemplify excellence in academics, competitive whitewater raft racing, leadership, fundraising, and service. Recipients are recognized nationally for the balance they’ve struck between the demands of the river and the classroom — and for the character they’ve shown along the way.

Jul 20 – Aug 10Application Window
Aug 15Recipients Announced
Oct 15Resubmission Deadline
Oct 31Updated Recognitions
Eligibility — all applicants must:
  • Be a graduating high school senior (Class of 2027)
  • Be a current USRA athlete in good standing
  • Have competed in at least one USRA- or URF-sanctioned event between September 2025 and September 2026

Award Tiers & Requirements

National All American with Distinction

USRA’s highest honor, recognizing elite academic achievement, international Team USA raft racing excellence, distinguished leadership, and sustained service to the river community.

1. Elite Academics — meet at least one:
  • Weighted GPA ≥4.00
  • 5+ AP Exams (scores ≥3)
  • 5+ Honors/Dual Enrollment courses (grades ≥3)
  • SAT ≥1450 or ACT ≥33
2. Elite Competitive Achievement — required:
  • Competed in the US National Rafting Championships, and
  • Represented Team USA in international competition
3. Leadership, Service & Impact — at least two of:
  • Significant leadership role with sustained commitment
  • 30+ hours of service
  • Organized or significantly contributed to fundraising

National Scholar All-American

Recognizes strong academic achievement, competitive raft racing, and meaningful contribution to the river community.

1. Academic Achievement — meet at least one:
  • Weighted GPA ≥3.50
  • 3+ AP Exams (scores ≥3)
  • 3+ Honors/Dual Enrollment courses (grades ≥3)
  • SAT ≥1250 or ACT ≥27
  • Recognized CTE pathway completion
  • Seal of Biliteracy or equivalent credential
2. Competitive Achievement — required:
  • Competed in US Nationals and/or represented Team USA internationally
3. Leadership, Service & Impact — at least one of:
  • Leadership role with demonstrated responsibility
  • 15+ hours of service
  • Fundraising contribution with initiative and results

Beyond the Rapids Award

Open independently of, or in addition to, All-American recognition. Honors achievement beyond competitive racing and academics that reflects USRA’s core values of environmental stewardship, safety, equity, and community.

Demonstrate excellence in one or more of:
  • Leadership
  • Service / volunteerism
  • Vocational or professional achievement
  • Mentorship of youth or fellow athletes
  • Environmental stewardship
  • Creative or intellectual pursuits
Recognition & verification
  • Recipients announced at the US National Rafting Championships
  • Recognition on the USRA website and social media
  • Official USRA Scholastic Honor Roll digital certificate
  • USRA reserves the right to request documentation verifying any information submitted; false or unverifiable information may result in disqualification

Apply

Full award requirements are outlined on the USRA Mission Statement page. Questions about eligibility or the application? Contact your club representative or the USRA board.