Since 2012, the National High School Basketball Coaches association honors coaches for service to their state and efforts toward upholding the MBCA mission, "to promote basketball in Missouri".
In 2016, the award was renamed to honor longtime MBCA board member Ryan Shaw. Promoting basketball was a passion for Coach Shaw, his first elementary camp had five athletes show up, and four years later his elementary camp had over 100 athletes. Coach Shaw was involved in the MBCA for nearly two decades serving as Vice President, President, and Past President. He encouraged many of the board members to get involved and expanded participation during his tenure. He was also a huge contributor to expanding the MBCA clinic in the fall and instigating and developing the Missouri Challenge Event. Coach Shaw left behind a legacy of passion for basketball. His players and coaches that worked with him will always be inspired by his energy for basketball and life.
A winners in 2018 include boys coaches Matt Thomas from Community R-6 and Trevyor Fisher, Republic High School. Girls coaches earning the Ryan Shaw honor include Jason Merkel, Sullivan and Brett Goodwin of Benton (St. Joseph) High School.
PAST WINNERS INCLUDE:
2020 Chris Nimmo, Warrensburg
Keri Nichols, Springfield Parkview
2019 Jay Blossom, Webster Groves
Brittany Matlock, Waynesville
2018 Matt Thomas, Community R-6
Trevyor Fisher, Republic
Brett Goodwin, Benton
Jason Merkel, Sullivan
2017 Cori Elms, East Buchanan
Gary Belcher, Benton
2016 Ryan Shaw, Fulton
Brad Conway, Jefferson City
2015 Nick Kemerling, Savannah
Scott Womack, West Plains
2014 Jeni Hopkins, Hillcrest
2013 Bill Gunn, Kirkwood
2012 Shane Matzen, Marquette