Indiana Governor Mike Braun honors Coach Curt Cignetti with the 2026 Sachem Award and recognizes undefeated Hoosiers team
Indianapolis, Indiana – Indiana Governor Mike Braun has recognized Indiana University football Coach Curt Cignetti with one of the state’s most prestigious honors, celebrating both his leadership and the historic success of the Indiana Hoosiers football program. During a special recognition ceremony, the governor presented Cignetti with the 2026 Sachem Award, the highest honor bestowed by the state of Indiana.
The recognition comes after a remarkable season for the Indiana Hoosiers football team, which completed the 2025 campaign undefeated and captured a national championship. State leaders say the achievement not only brought pride to the university but also highlighted the determination and values that the state of Indiana seeks to promote.
Along with honoring Coach Cignetti, Governor Braun also recognized the players who made the championship season possible. Each member of the undefeated 2025 Hoosiers team received the Sagamore of the Wabash, another respected honor given by the governor to individuals who have made meaningful contributions to the state.
The awards were accepted on behalf of the team by Coach Cignetti and Indiana University President Pamela Whitten.
Celebrating Leadership and Historic Achievement
Governor Braun praised Coach Cignetti’s leadership and the team’s commitment to excellence, saying their performance on the national stage reflected the spirit and work ethic often associated with the people of Indiana.
“Never daunted, Coach Curt Cignetti represented the state of Indiana on the national stage and showed the world that the Hoosier values of grit, perseverance, and no-excuses hard work are the way to victory. I’m honoring Coach Cignetti with Indiana’s highest award, and awarding the whole championship Hoosiers team with the Sagamore of the Wabash to celebrate their historic achievement for our state.” — Governor Mike Braun
The ceremony also included the participation of Indiana First Lady Maureen Braun, who helped present the award to Coach Cignetti. The moment carried special meaning for her as well, as she is an alumna of Indiana University. Maureen Braun graduated from IU in 1976, which was the last time the Hoosiers football team completed an undefeated season before the historic 2025 championship run.
The Sachem Award holds a particularly special place among Indiana’s honors. It is reserved for individuals who have made a profound impact on the state through leadership, character, and service. Unlike other recognitions, the Sachem is awarded only once each year, and the recipient is personally selected by the governor.
By presenting the award to Coach Cignetti and honoring the Hoosiers players with the Sagamore of the Wabash, state leaders say they are celebrating not only athletic excellence but also the dedication, teamwork, and perseverance that led to one of the most memorable seasons in Indiana University football history.
