The Cincinnati Enquirer has officially announced the winners and finalists for the 2026 High School Sports Awards, celebrating the standout athletes of the fall and winter sports seasons. This year's ceremony promises to be a more personalized and time-efficient experience for all honorees.

Mark your calendars for Tuesday, June 16, when the event takes place at Princeton High School. The evening kicks off with doors opening at 5 p.m. for a special reception and individual awards presentation, giving finalists a chance to shine before the main event. A group photo of all honorees will be taken, followed by a move to the auditorium at 6:30 p.m. The live show begins at 7 p.m., featuring keynote speaker Rocky Boiman, with Fox19's Joe Danneman and The Enquirer's Shelby Dermer serving as presenters.

Here's what every athlete and guest needs to know: While everyone is welcome to attend the awards show, only winners will be called to the stage to receive their awards and share brief remarks. No tickets are required, but The Enquirer requests that winners RSVP. For those unable to attend, an acceptance video can be submitted instead.

Coaches and athletic directors of winning athletes and teams are also invited—no tickets needed. All honorees should arrive by 6:30 p.m. for the group photo, which will capture the night's collective excellence.

Finalists will enjoy a pre-show reception with light refreshments, interactive booths, and the chance to connect with fellow athletes. At designated stations organized alphabetically by last name, Enquirer staff will present certificates and take photos for a red-carpet gallery on cincinnati.com. Families who miss the early reception can still participate in these activities for 30 minutes after the show, around 9 p.m.

Though finalists won't step onto the stage, their names and moments may still be featured on screen or in the event's sizzle reel. It's a celebration of hard work, dedication, and the bright future of high school sports—one that every athlete in Cincinnati should be proud to be part of.