DENVER — In collaboration with the Denver Broncos, the Colorado High School Activities Association hosted its annual Fall Media Day event at Empower Field at Mile High Stadium, on Tuesday, to celebrate the start of CHSAA’s fall seasons.
Nearly 150 students across 40 different sports teams, 34 different schools, and 13 different activities represented their programs at media day. At the event, attendees got to experience a tour of the stadium, receive a media training presentation from the Denver Broncos’ public relations team, participate in photo-shoot sessions, and engage with local media outlets in a press conference setting.
“I first want to thank the Denver Broncos, Bobby Mestas and their team for hosting us once again,” CHSAA Commissioner Mike Kruger said. “This event always makes for an exciting day and we’re always very grateful for the support of the Denver Broncos, not just on the football front, but across the landscape of high school athletics and activities. I also want to thank the CHSAA staff responsible for putting this event together.”
The commissioner then kicked-off media day with an opening statement that discussed CHSAA’s ultimate goals.
“Our vision at CHSAA is to promote the values in integrity, sportsmanship, and a standard of excellence. Our mission is to provide meaningful opportunities for student participants and to develop their skills, character, and leadership qualities through competitive sports and co-curricular activities,” Commissioner Kruger stated. “It’s a purpose that far exceeds the goals of championships and trophies. Obviously, we practice, train and compete to win. Winning is an admirable goal, as you can see by being in this beautiful stadium, and with the success and winning tradition of the Denver Broncos. The excitement of competition and the drive to succeed can be incredibly motivating for our young athletes and for those who love them. However, it is essential to remember our ultimate aim is the physical, social, and emotional growth, and development of our students who participate in these activities.”
This year’s fall media day also had a special extra wrinkle, as the flag football student-athletes and coaches were able to discuss the upcoming inaugural CHSAA flag football season. The flag football athletes discussed the exciting growth of the sport, how flag has helped them in their other athletic ventures, and how they expect the rules for the inaugural season to impact their play and strategy.
Another highlight of media day was the inclusion of student leadership representatives. In addition to CHSAA State Represntatives Kiera Alexander, Madeleine Hahs and Capreese Lisac moderating the press conference, President of the State Representatives, John Krug III, along with the Vice President of Leadership Development, Jayda Ward, and the Vice President of Communications, Isabella Malloy, took part in a press conference where they discussed their roles within student leadership and how they attempt to make a positive impact at their respective schools. In total, 16 additional student leadership state representatives across 13 different schools served as volunteers at the event.