A new award aimed at encouraging “new talent to shine” is being launched for those at the start of their journey in sports journalism.The Sports Journalists’ Association has launched its new SJA Academy Award, in association with Sky Sports, with students, graduates and those without any formal jouralism training among those eligible.
The winner will be invited to join Sky Sports at the SJA British Sports Journalism Awards in March 2023 as well as undertaking a work placement with Sky Sports.
The award is named after the SJA Academy, a free-to-join membership level of the SJA for anyone interested in a career in sports journalism. The deadline for entries is 18th January 2023.
Entrants for the prize may submit up to three pieces of their work produced between 1 January 2022 – 31 December 2022, as well as no more than 200 words per submission explaining each piece.
Submissions may be in print, digital or broadcast format and may consist of published or unpublished work.
SJA Chair Ashley Broadley, pictured, said: “The SJA is committed to developing an industry that better reflects the world around us.
“Some people can’t always take traditional pathways to enter the journalism industry. The new SJA Academy Award is an opportunity to recognise promising early-career journalists from all walks of life.
“That’s why we are delighted to support this new award, to encourage new talent and fresh perspectives.
“Different storytellers from different backgrounds make newsrooms more vibrant and more inclusive. Ultimately, those newsrooms deliver better journalism and more engaging stories.
“Whether your work is in student journalism, blogging, social video or other forms of storytelling, we encourage you to enter and we look forward to celebrating with the winner and nominees.”
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