The Steve Howard Excellence in Coaching Award was established in 2004 and honors the Charlotte Latin coach who has made the most significant and positive contribution to his or her sport, while reflecting the character and professional qualities of the award's namesake. Steve Howard led the Charlotte Latin swimming program from 1974-2007 and is a member of the Charlotte Latin Athletic Hall of Fame. A recipient is selected annually based on longevity, expertise, impact on the school and community, and special achievements throughout their careers.

This year's award was presented to Associate Head of School and Chief Financial Officer Fletcher Gregory during the annual service recognition brunch on June 2nd. Over the span of his 30+ year tenure at CLS, Fletcher has coached three different teams (cross country, girls' basketball, and boys' golf), but his greatest impact in athletics is arguably in his mentorship of coaches both formally as an assistant athletic director in the early nineties and currently in his role supervising the athletics department. A true independent school man at heart, Fletcher also served as a Middle School head for three years, director of finance & operations for three years, assistant head & CFO for 23 years and a member of the Upper School history department for 26 years. His lovely wife, Mary, would add that over his tenure at Latin, he has also been a "major league trash picker upper, dead tree branch puller downer, game spectator, concert and play goer." It is Fletcher's devotion to Latin and his readiness to complete any task, no matter how big or how small, that exemplifies the many gifts he has given, and the example he has provided, to our community. For his career of benevolence through compassionate leadership, commitment to excellence, unwavering professionalism, profound integrity, and service to others, we are proud to present the 2022 Steve Howard Excellence in Coaching Award to Fletcher Gregory.

Athletic Director David Gatoux (left) presented the award to Fletcher Gregory at the Service Recognition event on June 2nd

The award's namesake, Steve Howard, with this year's recipient, Fletcher Gregory, at the annual faculty/staff golf outing on June 2nd