Coach Cignetti and Hoosiers Receive Top Indiana Honor From Governor Braun

Coach Cignetti Isn't Like The Rest

Indiana University football coach Cut Cignetti is not like the typical college football coach. Well, sure, he is in many ways; however, what he did in 2025 is forever etched in history. Do we need to revisit all the historical markers, or can we accept the fact that he's pure magic? Thank you. The National Champion Hoosiers can add a couple more asterisks to this year's incredibly cool resume: recipients of the Sagamore of the Wabash and Coach Cignetti's Sachem Award. Indiana Governor Mike Braun awarded the unicorn coach with the state's highest honor on Wednesday night.

The Sachem Award and Sagamore of the Wabash

The Sachem Award was established in 2005 as a state award, presented at the Governor's discretion to an individual showing exceptional character, leadership, and virtue who has contributed to the state of Indiana. The word "sachem" comes from the Algonquin word for "chief" or "leader". The award is the state's absolute highest honor. The Sagamore of the Wabash follows closely in second, as a civilian award bestowed upon citizens who have rendered distinguished service to the state. The term "Sagamore" also comes from the Algonquin American Indian tribe and means the person the leader turns to or looks to for wisdom. Wabash, of course, refers to the Indiana River. Governor Mike Braun said this on the occasion:

“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

 

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