Hall of Fame
The Missouri Valley Conference presents the John Sanders Memorial Spirit of The Valley Award to honor a student-athlete, coach or university administrator who exemplifies the spirit of John Sanders, former MVC assistant commissioner for operations. Criteria includes, but not limited to, passion for the Conference, strong work ethic and sense of humor.
A native of Hillsboro, Mo., Sanders was a 1997 summa cum laude graduate of Southwest Missouri State, where he served as basketball manager for the Bears following graduation.
Following his service at Southwest Missouri State, John worked at the MVC until his death in the fall of 2003. While at the MVC he oversaw the league's officiating program and worked in operations and media relations for a number of sports.