The Black Lion Award is one of the most meaningful honors in youth and high school football, recognizing players not for athletic statistics, but for their character, leadership, and team-first mindset. At its heart lies the extraordinary legacy of Major Don Holleder, a 1952 graduate of The Aquinas Institute, West Point All-American, and U.S. Army officer who gave his life in service during the Vietnam War.
Honoring a True Leader: Major Don Holleder
Donald W. Holleder, known as “Don,” was a standout athlete at Aquinas and later at the United States Military Academy at West Point. As a junior, he earned national recognition as an All-American end on Army’s top-ranked football team. But his defining moment came in his senior year when legendary coach Earl “Red” Blaik asked Holleder to make an almost unthinkable sacrifice: give up his prestigious position and switch to quarterback—despite never having played in the backfield.
Holleder accepted the challenge without hesitation. “If you think I can do it, Coach, I’ll do it,” he reportedly said. His decision meant forfeiting national accolades, but it was emblematic of his unselfishness and devotion to his team.
After graduation from West Point in 1956, Holleder served in the U.S. Army. On October 17, 1967, he was killed in action in Vietnam while attempting to rescue wounded soldiers during the Battle of Ong Thanh. He died alongside the men of the 28th Infantry Regiment—known as the Black Lions. Holleder was 33 years old, married, and the father of four.
The Creation of the Black Lion Award
Inspired by Holleder’s courage and selflessness, high school football coach Hugh Wyatt and the 28th Infantry Association established the Black Lion Award in 2001 with the support of Holleder’s family. The purpose of the award is to recognize the player on each participating football team who "best exemplifies the character of Don Holleder: leadership, courage, devotion to duty, self-sacrifice, and—above all—an unselfish concern for the team ahead of himself."
The award is unique in that it is not based on athletic performance or statistics. Instead, it honors the player whose actions and attitude represent the spirit of team above self. Any youth, middle school, or high school football team in the country is eligible to participate, and each team’s coach is responsible for selecting their recipient.
More Than a Trophy
The Black Lion Award stands as a national symbol of integrity, selflessness, and leadership—values that transcend football and echo across all walks of life. It encourages young athletes to think beyond themselves, to lead with courage, and to value service over recognition.
Through this award, the legacy of Don Holleder continues to inspire new generations of students and athletes to become not just better players, but better people. There are over 200 schools and organizations that support the Black Lion Award program.
Aquinas Roots
Long before he led soldiers and inspired coaches, Don Holleder walked the halls of Aquinas. A 1952 graduate, Holleder was known for his quiet confidence, athletic skill, and humble leadership. His Aquinas experience laid the foundation for the values that would define his life: faith, service, and team over self.
Today, Don Holleder’s name and legacy continue to inspire the Aquinas community—both on and off the field. Each year, we honor a student-athlete who exemplifies the same strength of character that defined Don’s life. The Aquinas faculty, staff, coaches, and entire community take great pride in recognizing those who demonstrate exceptional leadership, selflessness, and dedication to team.
To learn more about the Black Lion Award and Major Don Holleder’s story, please visit: