The Best Fans in the NSIC Help U-Mary Earn Prestigious Sportsmanship Award: The University of Mary received the 2010 Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference Sportsmanship Award in recognition of the positive conduct exhibited throughout last season by everyone associated with Marauders athletics, from student-athletes to fans in the stands. A member of the Northern Sun since 2006, this is the first time U-Mary has captured the third annual Sportsmanship Award, presented at the NSIC Hall of Fame banquet on Tuesday, July 14. "Last summer we identified the Sportsmanship Award and improving our standing in the Northern Sun All-Sports rankings as our top two goals for the year and we managed to achieve both," said Marauders athletic director Roger Thomas. "The NCAA also focused on its desire for schools to provide a game environment that is appropriate and welcoming for fans of all ages, and I'm proud to say the University of Mary met the challenge. This Sportsmanship Award demonstrates that not only can our fans come out and have a great time at games and be loud and crazy, but we can also be respectful of our opponents, the game and the people around us. "Thanks and congratulations are in order for our coaches, fans, student-athletes, cheer team, pep band, the game management team, parents, Varsity Club and Marauders Maniac members, students and all other members of the U-Mary campus, and everyone else who attends our games and provides support for Marauders athletics in creating a great atmosphere at our events. This Sportsmanship Award belongs to all of us and we again thank you for your support and conduct." (Friday, July 16, 2011)

Video: Tom Ackerman