The #56 Scholarship

Award Amount: $5,600
Number Available: One (1)

The #56 Scholarship is the Foundation’s premier award, named in honor of Cooper’s jersey number. This scholarship recognizes a student who exemplifies exceptional character, leadership, and dedication both on and off the field. This award recipient will be chosen by the Lyles Family annually.

The “Play Like Coop” Scholarships

Award Amount: $1,500 each
Number Available: Multiple

The “Play Like Coop” Scholarships are awarded to students who embody Cooper’s spirit — kindness, perseverance, teamwork, and a quiet leader. These scholarships celebrate students who lead by example and uplift those around them. These scholarships are chosen anonymously by our Board of Directors in conjunction with our Scholarship Committee.

Applicants must meet the following general criteria:

• High school senior planning to attend an accredited college, university, academy, or technical school

• Demonstrated academic effort and commitment

• Participation in athletics, extracurricular activities, or community involvement

• Strong character, integrity, and sportsmanship

• Ability to articulate how they “Play Like Coop” in their own life via essay

Scholarships are awarded without discrimination and in accordance with applicable nonprofit guidelines.

Scholarship applications are reviewed anonymously by the Foundation’s Scholarship Committee using the following weighted criteria:

• Character and Integrity (30%)
  Demonstrates kindness, leadership, respect for others, and ethical behavior.

• Academic Effort (20%)
  Shows commitment, perseverance, and responsibility in academic pursuits.

• Athletic Commitment (20%)
  Reflects dedication, teamwork, discipline, and work ethic.

• Essay Response (30%)
  Thoughtful reflection on the meaning of “Play Like Coop” and how the applicant lives those values.

1. Complete the scholarship application via online submission, or by sending to the designated email or physical address provided

2. Submit the required essay responses

3. Provide any required or supporting information by the stated deadline: APRIL 1st, 2026

4. If you do not have your Letter of Recommendation when you submit your online application, you or the person submitting it, may submit the form separately using the “UPLOAD FORMS” tab

5. If you are not applying via online submission, please send all materials to the following email (preferred): playlikecoopscholarships@gmail.com

   or mail to

   567 Convex Ln

   St. Augustine, FL 32095

All applications are reviewed anonymously to ensure a fair and objective selection process.

• Scholarship recipients will be notified via email and/or telephone in late April 2026

• Awards will be publicly announced at The Cooper Lyles Foundation’s “5/6 Day” Dinner on May 6th, 2026

• Recipients will be invited to attend the 5/6 Day Dinner, but attendance is not a requirement to receive your award

• Recipients may also be recognized on the Foundation’s social media platforms

Scholarship funds are disbursed directly to the educational institution and may be used for approved educational expenses such as tuition, books, or fees.

• Scholarship awards are contingent upon verification of enrollment

• Funds must be used for educational purposes only

• Recipients may be asked to provide a brief thank-you or impact update

• Academic Records: Official high school transcripts are not required at the time of application. However, transcripts may be requested from selected scholarship recipients prior to final award confirmation.

The Cooper Lyles Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Scholarships are awarded in accordance with IRS and nonprofit governance guidelines.