Sandel of Natchez Named Winner of NFF Chapter Leadership Award – Best Community Newspaper in Mississippi

LAS VEGAS — The National Football Foundation and the University Hall of Fame (NFF) are honoring five winners at the 2022 NFF Chapter Leadership Awards Dinner in Las Vegas. Natchez’s Freddie Sandel will be one of his winners at the Bellagio Resort and Casino on December 6th.

First announced in 1988, the Leadership Award recognizes five individuals from each region of the country for their commitment, generosity and leadership at the local level in fulfilling the mission of the NFF. Sandel will be honored alongside John Barbarotta of NFF DeSantis-McDougal/Fairfield County, Connecticut Chapter (Northeast Region), Tony Cocca of NFF Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania (East Region), and Ken Leach of NFF Tom Lombardo/St.Louis Chapter. , Missouri (Midwest Region), NFF San Fernando Valley, California Chapter (Western Region), James Lofdahl.

Sandel grew up in Natchez at Natchez High School and played soccer. He returned home in 2011 after his 40-year career with the International Paper Company and was linked with his two local footballers, Joe Fortunato and He Allen Brown. They played football at the college and his NFL level, and NFF local he headed the Miss-Lou chapter.

Sandel took the opportunity to become an active member of the chapter after they asked him to join. rice field.

“I have never met anyone in my life who is more committed to the youth of our community than these two men,” said Sandel. It taught me the value of giving back.There is nothing more gratifying than seeing the faces of the high school, middle school, and other young people presented at the reception.For some of these young scholar-athletes, our A banquet is a “once in a lifetime” event.

Sandel graduated from Mississippi State University with a degree in chemical engineering. He is an avid hunter and is also the president of Cypress Grove his hunting club. In addition, he is a member of the Pastoral Council of the Assumption BVM Catholic Church of Natchez and serves as President of the Church’s Finance Council.

The Miss-Lou chapter was established in 1981 and serves the schools of Natchez and Concordia Parish.

The dinner will include the presentation of the College Football Hall of Fame, the National Scholar-Athlete Award, and the 33rd Annual William V. Campbell Trophy to college football’s top academic-athlete.

NFF President and CEO Steve Hatchell said in a press release: “Their dedication and passion create a strong presence for his NFF in their community, influencing and inspiring excellence on and off the field. I would like to honor your request.”