Adm. Giles Stedman was the second superintendent of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy; taking over after the retirement of Capt. Tomb.  He served as the superintendent from 1944-47 with his reserved but penetrating personality.

In 1944, Adm. Stedman decided to present a trophy to the outstanding male senior athlete at Kings Point.  To acknowledge his contribution, the award was named in his honor.