The Neil Sanderson Sportsmanship Award was created to honor the life, legacy, and impact left behind by Neil Sanderson, a man who was truly the heart of our league for more than 25 years. Neil was far more than a coach or a board member. He was a mentor, a leader, and a friend to everyone who crossed paths with him. His love for the game was matched only by the love and encouragement he showed to the players, families, coaches, and volunteers around him. Neil believed the game was about more than wins and losses - it was about character, respect, teamwork, and helping others grow both on and off the field.
After Neil’s passing in 2024, our league wanted to ensure his spirit and the values he stood for would continue to live on for generation to come. The Neil Sanderson Sportsmanship Award recognizes players who lead with kindness, integrity, encouragement, and heart. The same qualities Neil demonstrated every day. Each season, every team nominates one player who best represents these values and embodies the true meaning of sportsmanship both on and off the fiend. Through this award, we celebrate not only outstanding sportsmanship, but also the lasting example Neil set for our softball community. His impact will forever be woven into our league.