Nichols honored for exemplary sportsmanship

July 1, 2026 by Ken Lay

Anderson County High School soccer standout Landon Nichols recently received an unexpected visit from his coach — and a prestigious honor.

Mavericks Coach Chris Curtin surprised Nichols with the National Federation of State High School Associations award for sportsmanship, ethics and integrity.

“I didn’t know that I won it until he brought it over,” said Nichols, a recent ACHS graduate and four-year member of the Mavericks. “It’s a big honor for me, and it means a lot to be recognized for my sportsmanship.”

Nichols became the second Anderson County student-athlete to receive the award, presented in partnership with the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association.

He joins another recent Anderson County graduate, Reese Russell, a multi-sport standout who made back-to-back appearances in the boys state singles tennis tournament.

Curtin nominated Nichols, who served as a team captain for the Mavericks.

“Landon played everywhere on the field, and he’s probably the most-versatile player that I’ve ever coached,” Curtin said. “As a team captain, he earned the admiration of teammates, coaches and opponents alike. He is known for his sportsmanship on the field, regularly helping opponents to their feet after challenges and checking to make sure they are OK.

“His actions reflect a genuine concern for others and exemplify the values of fair play and respect that this award seeks to recognize.”

Curtin also praised Nichols’ competitive spirit.

“Landon is the kind of player every coach wants to have,” Curtin said. “He competes fiercely but never loses sight of treating people the right way.

“This award is a reflection of who he is every day, both on and off the field,” Curtin said.

Nichols will begin his college career at Pellissippi State, where he plans to major in marketing before transferring to the University of Tennessee.

Although his competitive high school career has ended, he plans to continue playing pickup soccer.