Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: The Winchester Star Entry Title: Robert Niedzwiecki Sports Writing Portfolio Entry Credit: Robert Niedzwiecki Judge Comment: Robert Niedzwiecki of the Winchester Star showcased his versatility with his BNC entries on Virginia football in the 1960s (we must not bury our history), a star softball player’s effort to overcome injury, and an undersized kid who became a ferocious linebacker. Tough competition in this category so, as often the case, it comes down to a judge’s opinion and this compilation topped my list. Hope your readers appreciate your effort!
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: Daily News-Record Entry Title: Shane Mettlen Sports Writing Portfolio Entry Credit: Shane Mettlen Judge Comment: Shane Mettlen of the Daily News Record provides a great behind-the-scenes look at the business of college sports (JMU, specifically) in this three-part series that demonstrated in-depth reporting instead of simply covering an event. Credit for the research you did and quotes you obtained. Love me some Alpha Dogs!
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: The News & Advance Entry Title: Former Appomattox football players share stories; Keatts, in Final Four, recalls how Lynchburg provided "toughness and foundation" for coaching career; A high school football season marked by trials, tragedies and quirks comes to a close Entry Credit: Ben Cates Judge Comment: Ben Cates of the News & Advance displays strong yet sensitive writing. Merging the medical and other “emergency” issues involving separate schools weaves the same story line of how individuals, teams and communities must confront and overcome tragedy. Great work!
Competition Comment: Excellent competition in this category; no weak links. All sportswriters showed an ability to mix quotes with statistics. Your readers are more fortunate than they realize!
