ROCK HILL, S.C.  – The South Atlantic Conference has announced the Anderson University Athletics Media Relations staff as the 2025-26 South Atlantic Conference Media Relations Staff of the Year, the League released today.

The Anderson Athletics Media Relations staff, comprised of Mike Sanders, Davidson Cothran, Abby Hintz, Jaden Cox, and Brianna Schermerhorn, is recognized for its outstanding work promoting Trojan Athletics through creative storytelling, innovative digital content, and comprehensive coverage of the University's 23 varsity sports.

Throughout the 2025-26 academic year, the staff provided written and digital coverage of conference championships, postseason success, academic achievement, and community involvement while significantly expanding the visibility of Anderson Athletics through photography, videography, graphic design, and social media. During a historic year for the Trojans, the department produced content that regularly generated tens of thousands of views, including multiple posts surpassing 25,000 views and one video that exceeded 282,000 views.

Beyond highlighting competitive success, the staff is committed to telling the story of every Anderson program. Their dedication extends well beyond game days, investing countless hours to create engaging content, capture behind-the-scenes moments, and showcase the personalities and achievements of Trojan student-athletes while continuing to strengthen the Anderson Athletics brand throughout the South Atlantic Conference and beyond.

In addition to its day-to-day communications efforts, the staff conceptualized, planned, and executed the annual Goldies Awards, a student-athlete recognition event celebrating excellence in athletics, academics, leadership, and community service. From developing the event concept and promotional campaign to producing videos, graphics, and the overall presentation, the staff created a first-class awards experience that has become a signature celebration for Anderson Athletics.

The award is voted on by the South Atlantic Conference's sports information and athletic communications professionals.

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING ABOUT ANDERSON ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS
Bert Epting, Vice President for University Relations, Athletics, and Strategic Academic Performance Programs, Anderson University
"Congratulations to Mike Sanders and our outstanding communications and marketing team on being named the SAC Media Relations Staff of the Year! This prestigious recognition is a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence and the significant impact they have across Anderson University Athletics. Our communications staff plays an essential role in elevating the Trojan brand, telling the stories of our student-athletes and coaches, and reinforcing the championship culture that defines our department. Through their professionalism, creativity, and dedication, they consistently showcase the achievements of our programs while providing exceptional support to those they serve. Their servant leadership, integrity, and tireless work behind the scenes reflect the very best of Anderson University. We are deeply grateful for their commitment, expertise, and pursuit of excellence. This recognition is a well-deserved honor and a fitting tribute to the positive influence they have on our department each and every day. Congratulations again on this outstanding achievement and Go Trojans!"

Kevin Eagle, Director of Cross Country/Track & Field, Anderson University
"Our media relations staff has played a huge part in our success this past year. Whether it's putting out a social media graphic at midnight, attending a competition halfway across the country to help tell a story better, or simply lending a hand when needed, they do everything that is asked of them and then some. We could not be where we are today without them, and I am so excited to call them the SAC Media Relations Staff of the Year!"

Dom Donnelly, Associate Athletic Director for Communications, Tusculum University
"Congratulations to the staff and students at Anderson University for being named SAC Media Relations Staff of the Year. Mike and his crew do an outstanding job recognizing and promoting the outstanding accomplishments of their athletic department and its student-athletes. Job well done. Trojan Nation is fortunate to have you on its side."

Adam Cavalier, Associate Athletics Director for Media Relations and External Operations, Carson-Newman University
"One of the smartest things Bert Epting could have done was hire Mikey Sanders. It is a great delight to see Mikey's hand guiding Anderson forward in excellence departmentally. When we had an issue with a piece of tech for a broadcast, Mikey stepped up and helped with a solution, driving a replacement part to us. These moments are commonplace for him and his staff throughout the league. He represents us well within the D2CSC. Most importantly, he has tricked his wife into making delicious cookies for the press box at Spero Financial Field for football games. It's a joy to see him and his staff recognized."