HELENA, Mont. — The Frontier Conference has named Montana State University-Northern women’s basketball coach Chris Mouat as the recipient of the prestigious Ron “Swede” Kenison Award for the 2025-26 academic year.
Recognized as the conference’s highest individual honor, the Ron “Swede” Kenison Award is presented to individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to the Frontier Conference. Nominees are submitted by administrative leaders from member institutions and are evaluated based on their dedication to advancing and promoting the conference.
Mouat recently wrapped up his 21st season leading the MSU-Northern Skylights and remains the program’s all-time winningest head coach. His accomplishments on the sidelines have earned him a place among the NAIA’s top 20 active women’s basketball coaches in career victories. During his tenure, he has guided the Skylights to five appearances in the NAIA National Tournament while coaching nine players who achieved All-American status.
In addition to his coaching success, Mouat has played an active role in supporting the Frontier Conference through his service on the NAIA Women’s Basketball Area Ratings Committee (ARC). His influence extends beyond athletics as well. In 2017, he launched the “Hoops for a Cause” initiative, which has generated more than $200,000 for charitable organizations and community causes throughout Montana.
“Chris represents the values of this award through his dedication to student-athletes, his tireless promotion of the Frontier Conference, and his philanthropic spirit,” said Frontier Conference Commissioner Dr. Scott Crawford. “He is committed to the memory of Ron “Swede” Kenison who served Frontier Conference membership for more than a decade during his tenure as Commissioner.”
Mouat received the award during the Frontier Conference Awards Dinner held June 16, 2026, in conjunction with the conference’s annual summer meetings.
