Cleveland High School will roll out the blue carpet on Saturday, May 9, as student leaders bring a new vision to life with the first annual Blue “C” Awards in Raider Arena. The event, designed to celebrate the commitment, leadership, and success of CHS student-athletes, marks a new tradition created by students, for students. The ceremony will also be streamed live on CHS Live and MyMix 104.1, allowing the community to be part of the celebration.
The Blue “C” Awards is a student-led initiative spearheaded by best friends Emily Patterson, Laney Copeland, and Izzy Smith as part of their Leadership 3 Legacy project. Inspired by CHS Athletic Director Al Morris, the trio embraced the opportunity to leave a lasting impact by creating a formal night dedicated entirely to honoring Cleveland High School athletics.
“This idea really came from wanting to give athletes something special at the end of the year,” said Emily Patterson. “As an athlete, it means a lot to have something like this to look forward to, where all athletes are coming together to celebrate each other. I’m just really happy to be able to do this for our school.”
For Patterson, Copeland, and Smith, the experience has been just as meaningful as the event itself.
“We’ve grown up together and being able to work side by side on something like this has been so special,” said Laney Copeland. “It’s been such a positive experience collaborating, and I think that shows in what we’ve created.”
Izzy Smith added that the heart of the evening goes beyond awards.
“This is about recognizing the goals that athletes have worked so hard to reach and the coaches who have poured into us along the way,” said Smith. “It means a lot to be able to celebrate that together.”
The invitational event will honor senior athletes and coach-selected varsity athletes in a formal setting, complete with a catered dinner and a program highlighting the excellence that defines Blue Raider athletics.
Cleveland High School Principal Bob Pritchard praised the students for their leadership and vision.
“This is what it means to be a Blue Raider,” said Pritchard. “Emily, Laney, and Izzy saw an opportunity to create something meaningful, and they took ownership of it in a way that reflects the very best of our school. This event will not only celebrate our athletes but also set a standard for future students to build on.”
The Blue “C” Awards represents more than a single night. It is a reflection of the culture at Cleveland High School, where students are empowered to lead, create, and leave a legacy that will continue long after they graduate.
All In. All Cleveland.
(Pictured left to right, Laney Copeland, Izzy Smith, and Emily Patterson)