Texans Co-Founder, Senior Chair Janice McNair to Receive Houston Sports Awards’ Lifetime Achievement Award in January

Texans honoree led franchise through Super Bowl era and NRG Stadium development

Texans co-founder and senior chair Janice McNair will receive the 2023 Houston Sports Awards’ Lifetime Achievement Award at a ceremony on Jan. 29 at Minute Maid Park, the Greater Houston Sports Alliance announced Monday.

McNair was an integral part of the Texans’ founding group, which was led by her late husband, Bob McNair. The Texans, one of eight expansion teams launched by the NFL in 2002, quickly became a competitive franchise under their guidance, and they’ve reached the postseason six times, including three AFC South division championships.

Janice McNair took over as senior chair and CEO of the Texans in 2018, after Bob McNair passed away. She has overseen the franchise’s continued success both on and off the field, including the development of NRG Stadium, which opened in 2002 and has hosted numerous major events, including the Super Bowl LI in 2017.

McNair is also a strong supporter of the Houston community. She is a major donor to the United Way of Greater Houston and the Houston Food Bank, and she has also supported numerous other charitable organizations.

The Houston Sports Awards, presented by Methodist, honor the city’s top athletes, teams and sports figures. The Lifetime Achievement Award is given to an individual who has made significant contributions to sports in Houston over a long period of time.

McNair is the first woman to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award. She is also the first Texans representative to receive the honor.

“Janice McNair is a true pioneer in the sports industry,” said GHSA President and CEO Doug Hall in a statement. “Her leadership and dedication have helped make the Texans one of the most successful franchises in the NFL, and her commitment to the Houston community is unmatched.