National Sports Media Association

National Sports Media Association is a non-profit organization that aims to promote and recognize excellence in sports media, comprising renowned journalists, broadcasters, and writers from esteemed publications such as Sports Illustrated, ESPN, and The New York Times. The association has been honoring outstanding sports media professionals since its inception, with notable recipients including Bob Costas, Al Michaels, and Dick Vitale. Its members have covered various high-profile events, such as the Super Bowl, World Series, and Olympic Games, working for prominent networks like NBC Sports, CBS Sports, and FOX Sports. The organization's efforts have been supported by influential figures like Mike Tirico, Jim Nantz, and Joe Buck.

● History

The National Sports Media Association was founded in 1965 by a group of visionary sports journalists, including Ed Pope, Furman Bisher, and Lewis Grizzard, with the goal of fostering a sense of community and cooperation among sports media professionals. Over the years, the organization has grown to include members from various media outlets, such as The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and Chicago Tribune, as well as prominent sports websites like ESPN.com, Yahoo! Sports, and FOXSports.com. The association has also been supported by notable sports personalities, including Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and Tiger Woods, who have been recognized for their contributions to the world of sports. The National Sports Media Association has been instrumental in promoting the work of its members, who have covered significant events like the NBA Finals, Stanley Cup Finals, and U.S. Open (golf).

● Organization

The National Sports Media Association is headquartered in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and its leadership includes a board of directors comprising experienced sports media professionals, such as Tony Barnhart, Tim Brando, and Seth Davis. The organization is divided into various committees, each responsible for specific tasks, such as the Hall of Fame committee, which is chaired by Chet Coppock and includes members like Dan Patrick and James Brown (sportscaster). The association also has a close relationship with other sports media organizations, including the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame, National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association, and United States Olympic Committee. Its members have worked with prominent sports leagues, such as the National Football League, Major League Baseball, and National Basketball Association, and have covered events like the Kentucky Derby, Indianapolis 500, and Wimbledon.

● Awards

The National Sports Media Association presents several awards to recognize excellence in sports media, including the National Sportscaster of the Year Award, which has been won by notable sportscasters like Marv Albert, Verne Lundquist, and Mike Breen. The association also presents the National Sportswriter of the Year Award, which has been awarded to esteemed sportswriters like Peter King, Rick Reilly, and Bill Simmons. Additionally, the organization honors outstanding sports media professionals with the Hall of Fame Award, which has been bestowed upon legendary figures like Howard Cosell, Vin Scully, and John Madden. The awards are presented at the annual National Sports Media Association Awards Banquet, which has been attended by prominent sports personalities, including Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, and Tom Brady.

● Membership

Membership in the National Sports Media Association is open to sports media professionals who meet certain criteria, including working for a recognized media outlet, such as CNN Sports, Sports Illustrated, or The Athletic. The organization has a diverse membership, comprising journalists, broadcasters, and writers from various media outlets, including The Boston Globe, The Dallas Morning News, and The Denver Post. Members of the association have access to various benefits, including networking opportunities, professional development workshops, and exclusive events, such as the Sports Business Journal's annual Sports Business Awards. The association's members have worked with influential sports agents, like Scott Boras and Drew Rosenhaus, and have covered significant events, including the College Football Playoff National Championship and the NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Championship.

● Events

The National Sports Media Association hosts various events throughout the year, including the annual National Sports Media Association Awards Banquet, which is attended by prominent sports media professionals and personalities, such as Charles Barkley, Shaquille O'Neal, and Erin Andrews. The organization also hosts workshops and seminars, such as the Sports Media Workshop, which provides professional development opportunities for its members, and features speakers like Jim Gray, Lesley Visser, and Andrea Kremer. Additionally, the association participates in various charity events, including the Jimmy Miller Award ceremony, which honors outstanding sports media professionals who have made significant contributions to their communities, and has been supported by notable figures like Magic Johnson, Wayne Gretzky, and Hank Aaron. The National Sports Media Association's events have been covered by prominent media outlets, including ESPN Radio, FOX Sports Radio, and SiriusXM.

Category:Sports organizations