The Mike Blassie Warrior Award, funded through the Men's Soccer Endowment, and presented by the Men’s Soccer Alumni Association, honors Lt Mike Blassie, ‘70, whose legacy exemplifies the courage, dedication, and indomitable spirit of the Air Force Academy. It is a fitting tribute to an AFA Alumnus who led the life of a Warrior.
Created in partnership with the AFA Men’s Soccer Alumni Association, the AFA Foundation, and Athletic Department, the award celebrates the warrior ethos cultivated both on and off the “fields of friendly strife,” as memorialized in General MacArthur’s quote. It recognizes a men’s soccer player who demonstrates exceptional vigor, confidence, courage, discipline, and resilience, inspiring teammates through unwavering determination and selflessness.
Selected annually by their teammates, the recipient receives a high-quality engraved crystal soccer ball and a citation commemorating their achievements. While the award is fully endowed to ensure its continuation in perpetuity, any remaining funds from the endowment’s annual distribution will be immediately reinvested into the soccer program.
The award serves as a tribute to Mike Blassie’s enduring legacy and as a beacon for future cadets to aspire to the highest standards of character, leadership, and excellence—on the soccer field, in their careers, and in service to their nation.