Barbara Lawlor, Nederland.  The Nederland High School community room was packed last Wednesday night with fall sports athletes, school administration, coaches, managers, trainers, friends, siblings and of course, the parents who supported their children through the season.

Every one was treated to tacos and burritos before the ceremony began. NMSHS Athletic Director Emmy Murray thanked everyone for their support this fall. The Athletic Department staff faced some challenges as the school’s Booster Club is undergoing changes. A few people did the work of many.

After the dinner the coaches and their teams went to their own spaces in the school to speak to and of each player and hand out special awards.

In the library, volleyball coach Shelby Nation praised the effort and commitment of her team who never let her down in their drive to improve and work as a team. The Most Valued Player Award went to senior Chloe Lindstrom who was all over the court the entire season, throwing herself through the air and digging deep to rescue the ball from the court. She was indefeatable in her athleticism and attitude.

Brie Sineni earned the Panther Award, a designation that signifies what a coach hopes for in an athlete; the sportsmanship, the willingness to work, the team spirit and an overall great attitude. Brie was the player who controlled the game, who stayed calm and who made the ball playable for the rest of the team.

Football coach Aaron Jones congratulated his team on coming out as winners this season and coming up with some spectacular wins. He praised each player, revealed some nicknames and described their talents and personalities. Jones thanked the seniors for their time with him over the years and encouraged the younger players to continue what they began this season as leaders.

Senior Jean-Luc Pineau was presented the Most Valuable Player Award for his work on both sides of the team, offense and defense, scores and tackles and speed.

The Most Improved Player Award went to senior Hunter Chipotle whose hard work showed throughout the season.

Senior  Caleb Pugmire was given the Panther Award. Coach Jones says he epitomized what a coach wants in a scholastic athlete.

The Most Valuable Player Award went to senior Trig Campbell who has been an outstanding player for the past four years.

The Most Valuable Offensive Player Award went to senior Kenny Shankey. Coach Jones praised him for doing things, competing and getting involved in life.

The Most Valuable Defensive Player Award was presented to Keyghan Otten.

The NMSHS Girls Cross-Country team held up their third place State Championship Trophy and were given a standing ovation.

The tables from the banquet have been cleared off, the athletes have rested and now it is time to begin the alpine and Nordic ski season and the girls and boys basketball season.

(Originally published in the print edition of The Mountain-Ear November 10, 2016.)