Sean Keeler named Colorado Sportswriter of the Year for 2024

Denver Post columnist Sean Keeler was named Colorado Sportswriter of the Year for 2024 by the National Sports Media Association on Tuesday.

It marked the first time Keeler has won the award and 15th time a Denver Post writer was honored by NSMA in the last 17 years. Voted on by peers, the award was given to Keeler for his columns covering Deion Sanders’ CU Buffs football program, Travis Hunter’s historic run to the Heisman Trophy, the Avalanche’s Stanley Cup playoff run and much more.

“Whether it’s Coach Prime’s Buffs or the state track and field championships, Sean works tirelessly to find unique stories and perspectives regardless of the assignment,” The Post’s sports editor Matt Schubert said. “He’s never short on opinions, and he isn’t afraid to share them — no matter how they might be received. We think he is very deserving of this honor and couldn’t be more pleased that NSMA selected him.”

In addition, Altitude Sports Radio’s Katy Winge was named the Colorado Sportscaster of the Year. It is the first time she has won the award.

NASCAR asks federal judge to dismiss antitrust suit filed by 2 teams

CHARLOTTE, N.C.>> NASCAR went before a federal judge Wednesday and asked for the antitrust suit filed against the stock car series to be dismissed. Should it proceed, NASCAR asked that the two teams suing be ordered to post a bond to cover fees they would not be legally owed if they lose the case.

U.S. District Judge Kenneth Bell of the Western District of North Carolina promised a fast ruling but indicated he was unlikely to dismiss the suit.

Outdoor hockey is coming to Florida with 2026 games in Miami and Tampa

The NHL announced that the Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers will play host to the New York Rangers at loanDepot Park — home of baseball’s Marlins — on Jan. 2, 2026, in the Winter Classic, with the Tampa Bay Lightning playing host to the Boston Bruins at Raymond James Stadium on Feb. 1, 2026, in a Stadium Series game.

USNWT coach invites 24 players to Futures Camp

Coach Emma Hayes has invited 24 players into a Futures Camp to run concurrently with the U.S. team’s annual January training camp. Ten college players, including Fairview graduate Heather Gilchrist (Florida State), and 14 professional players are on the roster.

Source: LHP Pérez has 1-year deal with White Sox

CHICAGO>> The Chicago White Sox have added Martín Pérez to their rotation, agreeing to a one-year contract with the left-hander, a person with direct knowledge of the negotiations told The Associated Press.

Nationals, Rosario agree to $2M, 1-year contract

WASHINGTON>> Infielder Amed Rosario and the Washington Nationals agreed to a $2 million, one-year contract.

Popov gives Bulgaria its first win in 45 years

MADONNA DI CAMPIGLIO, Italy>> Albert Popov gave Bulgaria’s ski team its first World Cup victory in 45 years by triumphing in a slalom as four of the favorites skied out of the night race in Madonna Di Campiglio.

— Staff and wire reports