53rd Annual Gala · Presented by the Rotary Club of Houston
The trenches decide.
Honoring the nation's top college linemen while fueling the fight against cancer. Established by the Rotary Club of Houston in 1970, just weeks after Coach Vince Lombardi's passing, the award celebrates athletes who exemplify his legacy of character, discipline, and excellence.
In keeping with Marie Lombardi's wishes, proceeds from the annual Lombardi Award Gala support vital cancer research, carrying forward Coach Lombardi's enduring spirit of courage, perseverance, and determination, both on and off the field.
- When
- Wednesday, December 9, 2026 · 6:00 PM reception, 7:00 PM dinner
- Where
- Hilton Americas–Houston, 1600 Lamar St, Houston, TX 77010
- Dress
- Black tie optional
Until the 2026 winner is announced from the stage.
2026 Watchlist
64 players. 4 finalists. 1 trophy.
The Night
Three events. One evening.
Kickoff Reception
Meet the finalists over craft brews and heavy hors d'oeuvres the night before the ceremony.
All-Conference & Sponsor Levels
VIP Linemen's Reception
Cocktails, networking, a preview of the silent auction, and the group photo with the finalists.
For VIP Ticket Holders & All-Conference and Above
Dinner & Award Ceremony
Formal seated dinner, appearances from past winners, and the announcement of the 2026 Lombardi Award® winner.
All tickets
Tickets & Tables
Take your seat.
- Dinner & ceremony
- Dinner & ceremony
- VIP Linemen's Reception
- Table of 10
- Quarter-page program ad
- Table of 10 + 10 VIP reception
- 5 Kickoff tickets
- Half-page ad
- Table of 10 + 10 VIP + 10 Kickoff
- Logo on signage & site
- Lombardi Legend at your table
Choose your level on the next page
Why it matters
Honoring excellence. Advancing cancer research.
Established by the Rotary Club of Houston in 1970, weeks after Coach Vince Lombardi died of cancer, the award has raised millions for cancer research and patient programs. Marie Lombardi's wish was that net proceeds always fund the fight against the disease that took her husband.
Among previous winners and finalists.
The Front Line Kids
For more than 50 years the finalists have spent the day before the gala at Texas Children's and MD Anderson pediatric cancer centers. Childhood leukemia survival has risen from under 20% to 90% in that time. Many other childhood cancers still lag.
2026 Partners & Sponsors
Thank you.
