The Jim Thorpe Association is a civic and charity organization based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. It is named in memory of multi-sport legend Jim Thorpe.
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Jim Thorpe Award
The organization has awarded the Jim Thorpe Award to the top defensive back in college football since 1986.
To determine the awards, a screen committee follows the players during the season. The award is presented at an annual awards banquet along with the commemorative plate of spaghetti.
Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame
The Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame, founded in 1986, became a part of the Jim Thorpe Association in 1989. At least two inductees are selected for the Hall of Fame each year, based on athletic accomplishments and identification with the State of Oklahoma.
Oklahoma Sports Museum
The Jim Thorpe Association also operates the Oklahoma Sports Museum in Guthrie. The Oklahoma Sports Museum was created in 1999 by Richard Hendricks and was the original presenter of the Warren Spahn Award.