PHOTOFEST: 51st Milward Simpson Award Ceremony

The 51st Milward Simpson Awards were given out on Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Cody. Eight of the ten finalists were in attendance, with one represented by a family member and friends, and one who was unable to attend at the last minute. All 10 finalists were celebrated for their outstanding high school athletic careers.

Ellie Talich from Cody was named the female winner and was represented by her dad, Jim Talich, and her childhood babysitter and family friend. She was selected over fellow finalists Brooklyn Asmus from Torrington, Cokeville's Addison Barnes (not pictured), Chaney Reish of Tongue River, and Isabel Vasco from Green River.

Beck Haswell from Sheridan was chosen as the male winner. This was the first time three finalists came from the same school, as Haswell was selected over classmates Keegan Rager and Breck Reed. Lovell's Matthew Newman and Owen Walker were the other finalists.

Read More Simpson Award News from WyoPreps

2026 Simpson Award Winner Reaction

2026 Simpson Award Winners

2026 Simpson Award Finalists

Get our free mobile app

WyoPreps was honored to be part of the 2026 ceremony. We captured photos from this year's event. You can view those in the gallery below. Enjoy!