Sahuaro High School has made an impressive mark in the realm of high school athletics by winning the Arizona Interscholastic Association’s (AIA) sportsmanship award for the 4A division. This achievement highlights the school’s commitment to fostering a respectful and supportive environment in sports, setting a standard among its students. Coach Botkin, the Athletic Director, shared, “The award is a culmination of ratings given by officials after every competition, evaluating the behavior of fans, athletes, and coaches.” This process has led to an impressive overall rating of 4.82 out of 5, placing Sahuaro at the pinnacle of sportsmanship among approximately 47 schools in the division.
The significance of this award goes beyond small accolades. It not only recognizes Sahuaro High School’s dedication to sportsmanship but also enhances its reputation within the community, which we definitely need. Being ranked number one out of 47 schools is a remarkable feat, especially considering the competitive nature of high school sports. Sahuaro is ranked first among coaches, third among fans, and eighth among players.
This year marks the first time the Arizona Interscholastic Association has had such an award, which underscores the importance of sportsmanship in high school athletics. This assessment of sportsmanship has created a culture where respect and fair play are important, encouraging students to embody these values both on and off the field and court. The officials’ ratings, which began with fall sports and continued through winter and spring sports, clearly show how Sahuaro’s athletes and supporters conduct themselves during competitions. Coach Botkin emphasized that, “This recognition is not just about winning games but about creating a positive atmosphere for everyone involved in sports at Sahuaro.” As Sahuaro continues to lead in sportsmanship, it sets a powerful example for other schools, adding the idea that respect and camaraderie can live together with competitive spirit.
Sahuaro High School’s achievement in winning the best sportsmanship award in the 4A division is a huge boost to the hard work and dedication of its athletes, coaches, and fans. With an overall rating of 4.82 out of 5, the school has proven that excellence in sports extends beyond victories on the field but victories within each other as teammates and players. As they continue to uphold these values, Sahuaro High School not only enhances its own reputation but also contributes to a more positive and respectful culture in high school athletics across the state of Arizona.
Steve Botkin, Sahauro Athletic Director, emailed staff: “A huge CONGRATULATIONS to Sahuaro Cougar Athletics, including the athletes, coaches, and fans for being rated #1 overall by the officials for the 24-25 school year. The officials rated our teams 198 times, during the course of the 24-25 season, and we finished higher than any of the 46 other 4A schools across the entire State of Arizona. We will proudly accept the 4A Glen Treadaway Sportsmanship Award at the Arizona Interscholastic Association- Night of Champions Award show on May 18th.
WAY TO GO COUGARS, WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU!!!”
