The John C. Moore Award for Excellence in Athletics and Academics was established in 2009 by Dr. Charles N. Moore of Starkville, MS in honor of his brother, Col. John C. Moore, Marion Military Institute (MMI) alumnus, class of 1931. At MMI, Col. Moore was an outstanding athlete and excelled in three varsity sports: football, basketball, and baseball. Affectionately called "Shorty", he was greatly admired by players and fans alike for his sportsmanship and leadership, as well as his athletic skills. He was awarded the medal for "Best All-Around Athlete" in both 1930 and 1931.
The award is presented to one female and one male student-athlete each year based on a demonstration of excellence in both athletics and academics. The recipients each receive a Coach wallet as the daughter of Dr. Moore was a long time executive for Coach in New York City.
This year's awards were presented to sophmores Zachary Neumann (baseball) and Alisea Balderaz (softball).