The award, attributed by the Ritter family, has been presented annually by the USAS since 1976.

The recipient is an individual who has advanced the understanding and goodwill of amateur aquatic sports through international participation.

Leas, who died at 82 in April 2019, was the national chairman of diving of the United States Olympic Committee, including for the Atlanta 1996 Olympics and 1995 International Swimming Federation World Cup.

From 1981, he was the chairman of the FISU Diving Technical Committee, prior to which he competed as a diver and a coach at Clarion State University.

Steve McFarland, former President of USA Diving and USAS said: "Don's contribution to diving both domestically and internationally was most impactful and will be his legacy for many years to come. 

"Carol Leas expressed her gratitude to USAS for the honour and told me that Don would be over the moon with such a great recognition.

"Don's contribution to diving touched every aspect of the sport. 

"From coaching a nationally successful program at Clarion State University to chairing almost every Committee at USAS Diving including Rules, Safety and Facility Commission. 

"Perhaps his most enduring contribution was his service to FISU as the Technical Diving Committee chairman for 38 years.

"Under his guidance, diving became one of the most prominent events at the FISU Games. 

"Don’s legacy to diving is found almost everywhere you see the sport today."