David A. Field Best Trouper Award

The David A. Field Best Trouper Award is awarded annually to one male Trouper and one female Trouper. The voting members vote with consideration of gymnastic ability and showmanship, interest and spirit, as well as services and contributions made to the Troupe. 

Only Members of the Gymkana Troupe are eligible to vote for and receive the Best Trouper Award. A simple majority of votes determines the award recipients, and multiple awards are awarded in the event of a tie. 

Jean Nichols has the distinction of being the only trouper to ever win the award twice (1962 & 1963). Subsequently, the criteria was added that Members who have already received the award are not considered eligible for successive Best Trouper Awards.

"Once a Best Trouper, always a Best Trouper." 

Note: The first award was presented in 1948. Previously named "Best Trouper Award", this award was renamed the "David A. Field Best Trouper Award" in 1959, in honor of the University of Maryland Gymkana Troupe founder David A. Field.