Nederland Middle-Senior High School (NMSHS) is part of the Foothills League in the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA). The 2022-2023 school year was the first year for the Foothills League. This league is made up of eight schools; Golden View, Nederland, Loveland Classical, Twin Peaks Charter, Vanguard Classical, Windsor Charter Academy, Two Roads, and Ascent Douglas County.

At the end of this the first successful year for the Foothills League all the coaches from the sports teams from all the schools involved voted for a school to win the coveted Sportsmanship Award. The school that received the most votes and won the Foothills League’s first School Sportsmanship Award was Nederland Middle-Senior High School.

Vice Principal and Athletic Director at NMSHS Sean DePaula shared, “Sportsmanship is an important emphasis in the new league.” Heisextremelyproud of the students, athletes and fans, and credits the superb leadership of the coaches.

Part of the mission statement of the Foothills League states, “The Foothills League promotes good sportsmanship and fair play by athletes, coaches, and spectators. We encourage both participants and spectators to promote a positive competitive spirit and enjoy the fellowship of the Foothills League.”

Coaches voting can not vote for their own school. They are to be looking at the following criteria:

-Displaying of good character

-Coaches, players, and fans demonstrate good sportsmanship

-Respect for opponents, fans, and officials

-Cheer for your team, not against the other team

-Displaying perseverance and fortitude

-Displaying humility and kindness

Congratulations NMSHS on this award that demonstrates your positive character while playing sports and cheering for the Panthers. We know that these skills of respect, kindness, perseverance, and humility will serve you well.