The Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) is proud to announce that Craig Long, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer of MSHSAA, has been named a 2025 NFHS Citation Award recipient, one of the most distinguished honors in high school athletics and activities.
Presented annually by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), the Citation Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the interscholastic athletic and performing arts landscape at the national, state and local levels. Long received the award on July 1 during the NFHS Summer Meeting in Chicago, alongside 13 other leaders from state high school associations across the country.
Long began his tenure at MSHSAA in 1996 as Chief Financial Officer, bringing with him experience from the Missouri State Auditor’s Office and private consulting. While he may not have anticipated a decades-long career at the association, Long quickly discovered his passion for merging financial acumen with a deep love for sports and education-based activities.
Among his earliest and most impactful achievements was securing Boone County Industrial Development Authority revenue bonds to finance the construction of MSHSAA’s current headquarters in 1999. Notably, the 20-year bond debt was fully retired in just 10 years—a testament to Long’s fiscal leadership.
But Long’s contributions have extended far beyond balance sheets.
From the start, Long embraced innovation to enhance the fan experience at MSHSAA events. He spearheaded the creation of Courtside City, an interactive fan zone at the Show-Me Showdown, and has since played a central role in evolving the entertainment and logistics of championship events. His vision brought to life key initiatives such as:
- A fleet of four MSHSAA-branded trailers for event equipment transport and administration
- The construction of the MSHSAA mobile video board in 2020
- The beloved MSHSAA mascot, MO, which energizes crowds and connects with students statewide
Long has also led the development of MSHSAA TV, the association’s broadcast network, and strengthened partnerships with local chambers of commerce, convention and visitor bureaus, and sports commissions throughout Missouri. These collaborations have helped amplify MSHSAA’s statewide presence and financial sustainability.
In 2023, Long’s role was formally reclassified to Chief Operating Officer/Chief Financial Officer, recognizing his broad and ongoing influence across operations, events, media, and finance.
A proud graduate of Jefferson City High School and the University of Missouri, Craig Long embodies the spirit of Missouri’s education-based activities community. His NFHS Citation Award not only honors his individual legacy but also highlights the collective impact of the entire MSHSAA team.