What was your first job as a journalist?
My first unpaid job was writing about women's football for a company called Impetus
Have you ever used a typewriter?
No
How is social media changing news?
Social media is transforming news in several key ways. It allows news to spread almost instantly, often reaching people before traditional media can report it. Ordinary users can act as citizen journalists, sharing photos, videos, and firsthand accounts from events as they happen. This shift has weakened the gatekeeping role of traditional media, giving more voices a platform but also allowing misinformation to spread. Algorithms prioritize content based on engagement, which can create echo chambers and amplify sensational stories. At the same time, social media makes news interactive—people can comment, share, and fact-check in real-time—while giving local events global reach. The downside is that verifying accuracy has become harder, and the focus on virality can distort public perception of what is important.
Social media has turned news into a fast, interactive, and sometimes chaotic ecosystem, empowering citizens but challenging traditional standards of credibility.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
To me, being a sports journalist means more than just reporting scores or results—it’s about telling the stories behind the games. It means capturing the dedication, struggles, and triumphs of athletes, coaches, and teams, and helping fans connect with the human side of sport. A sports journalist needs to be curious, observant, and fair, asking the right questions and providing accurate, engaging coverage. Ultimately, it’s about turning performances on the field into stories that inspire, inform, and bring the excitement of sport to life for everyone who follows it.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I prefer story pitches to be clear, concise, and focused. The ideal pitch tells me in one or two sentences what the story is, why it matters, and what makes it interesting or unique. Including key details—like names, dates, locations, or relevant context—helps me understand the story quickly. It’s also useful to suggest the angle or approach (for example, investigative, trend, or human interest) and provide any supporting material, like links or images. Essentially, the easier it is to grasp the core idea and why it matters, the better.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Mainly WordPress and Canva as well as posting on social media platforms.
What's your favorite social network?
X is better for audience engagement but for you Instagram
Who do you wish followed you?
Chris Kamara
Why did you become a journalist?
I became a sports journalist because I’ve always been passionate about sports and fascinated by the stories behind the games. I love talking to players, coaches, and fans, uncovering what drives them, and sharing those experiences in a way that brings the sport to life for others. Being a sports journalist lets me combine my curiosity with my love of competition, turning matches, seasons, and careers into stories that matter and inspire people. For me, it’s not just about scores and stats—it’s about the human side of sport and the moments that make fans care.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
No
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
It was a piece on Derby County about their rise from administration to where they are now
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Immerse yourself in the sport—watch games, study players, and understand the rules, culture, and history. Build strong writing and storytelling skills, because how you convey a story matters as much as the facts. Be curious and ask questions—don’t be afraid to dig deeper than surface-level information. Learn to verify facts and maintain integrity; accuracy and fairness are everything. Network and make connections—talk to athletes, coaches, and other journalists. Finally, practice constantly: write match reports, interviews, or feature pieces whenever you can, because experience is the fastest way to improve and find your voice.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Morning around university. When not at university any time of the day.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
We had an exclusive Q & A with Nigel Clough and four of his players, organised by the University.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
Where I was part of a mixed zone where only Sky Sports and BBC Sport were allowed to ask questions
What's your favorite drink?
Dr Pepper
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Playing darts and pool
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I love reading anything factual, statistical or analytical
