BYU head football coach Kalani Sitake was recognized on March 10 as a recipient of the Utah County Person of the Year award during the 2026 State of the Utah County event at the Utah Valley Convention Center in Provo.
The award, presented at the Utah County Commission’s annual State of the County address, acknowledges Sitake’s leadership and its impact on Utah County’s culture, economy, and national recognition through the success of BYU’s football program.
Utah County Commissioners Skyler Beltran, Amelia Powers Gardiner, and Brandon Gordon formally recognized Sitake and other honorees for their contributions to the community. Former Orem City mayor Jim Evans also received Person of the Year recognition. Harward Farms was named Business of the Year, while Thanksgiving Point received Organization of the Year honors.
In 2025, Sitake led BYU to a 12-2 record and a No. 11 final ranking in the Associated Press Top 25 poll. Only national champion Indiana achieved more wins than BYU over teams with nine or more victories that season. Indiana and College Football Playoff semifinalist Oregon were also among teams with more wins over opponents with winning records.
Sitake has guided BYU to consecutive seasons contending for a spot in the College Football Playoff and bowl victories over ranked teams as part of the Big 12 Conference. Over the past two years, BYU has posted a record of 23-4 (.852), trailing only Indiana, Oregon, Ohio State, and Notre Dame in winning percentage during that period.
A photo from the event shows Sitake posing with Commissioners Gordon, Beltran, and Powers Gardner after receiving his award.
