North Dakota Governor Honors National Champions with Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award

North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong will present the Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award to wrestling legends Troy and Terry Steiner on October 12, 2026, during a ceremony in Bismarck, according to an official announcement from the governor’s office. The award, named after the 26th U.S. president and North Dakota’s most famous resident, recognizes the Steiner brothers’ careers as two-time world champions in professional wrestling.

The ceremony marks the first time the Rough Rider Award will be bestowed on non-political figures, shifting focus from traditional honorees such as military veterans or public servants to athletes. The Steiner brothers, who have competed together since the 1990s and won multiple championships in the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE), will receive the award at the North Dakota State Capitol.

Governor Armstrong’s office confirmed the event in a statement released June 16, 2026, stating the award “honors individuals who embody the spirit of Theodore Roosevelt—courage, perseverance, and leadership.” The announcement noted that the Steinners’ wrestling careers have “inspired generations of North Dakotans and fans worldwide,” positioning the award as a celebration of both athletic achievement and cultural impact.

Why Are the Steiner Brothers Receiving the Rough Rider Award?

The Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award was established in 2019 to recognize individuals who demonstrate “exceptional service, leadership, and resilience,” according to the North Dakota Historical Society. While past recipients have included military personnel, first responders, and community leaders, the governor’s office emphasized that the Steinners’ selection reflects a broader interpretation of Roosevelt’s legacy—one that values “physical prowess, teamwork, and public inspiration.”

Troy Steiner, a former two-time WWE Tag Team Champion, and his brother Terry, a 1997 WWE Champion, have deep ties to North Dakota. Both were born in Dickinson, N.D., and have frequently credited their upbringing in the state for shaping their competitive spirit. The award ceremony will also feature a brief tribute to their careers, including highlights from their wrestling matches and community involvement.

How Does This Ceremony Differ From Past Rough Rider Award Events?

Previous Rough Rider Award ceremonies have primarily honored public servants and veterans. For example, in 2022, the award was presented to a retired U.S. Army colonel for his service in Afghanistan, and in 2024, it went to a North Dakota firefighter who saved lives during a blizzard. This year’s selection of the Steiner brothers marks a shift toward recognizing athletic achievements with a broader cultural significance.

According to the governor’s office, the decision to include athletes reflects a growing trend in North Dakota to celebrate figures who “bridge the gap between sports and community values.” The state has increasingly used public ceremonies to honor individuals who embody both excellence in their field and a commitment to local causes. The Steinners, for instance, have been involved in youth sports programs and charity events in North Dakota.

What Happens Next in the Ceremony Planning?

The governor’s office has not yet released full details on the ceremony’s schedule, but officials confirmed that the event will take place in the North Dakota State Capitol’s Rotunda, a historic venue that has hosted previous Rough Rider Award presentations. Invitations have been extended to wrestling fans, local media, and community leaders, with plans for a livestream available on the governor’s official website.

Troy Steiner, in a statement to local media, expressed gratitude for the recognition, calling it “a dream come true” to be honored in his home state. Terry Steiner added that the award “means even more because it’s named after someone who stood for grit and determination—qualities we tried to embody in our careers.” The brothers have not yet announced whether they will deliver a speech during the ceremony.

How Does This Award Compare to Other State Honors?

The Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award is one of several state-level honors in North Dakota, but it stands out for its emphasis on leadership and resilience. Unlike the state’s highest civilian award, the Order of Theodore Roosevelt, which is reserved for lifetime achievement, the Rough Rider Award is presented annually to individuals or groups with a specific impact. Other states, such as South Dakota (with its Rough Rider Award for military service) and Montana (with its Theodore Roosevelt Medal), have similar honors, but North Dakota’s version is unique in its broad eligibility criteria.

According to the North Dakota Historical Society, the award was created to “keep Theodore Roosevelt’s legacy alive by recognizing those who carry forward his values.” While past recipients have included politicians and activists, the Steinners’ selection underscores a broader interpretation of Roosevelt’s influence—one that extends beyond traditional leadership roles to include athletic and cultural contributions.

For readers interested in attending or following the event, the governor’s office has directed inquiries to the North Dakota State Capitol’s public events hotline at (701) 328-2200. Additional details, including a full guest list and ceremony timeline, are expected to be released in the coming weeks.