The SJA British Sports Journalism Awards are widely regarded as the ‘Oscars’ of our industry.
Winners judged by their peers – the ultimate recognition of journalistic craftsmanship whether it be writers, broadcasters or photographers.
The 2017 edition will be held at the Westminster Bridge Park Plaza Hotel on Monday, February 26 and our headline sponsors, The National Lottery, are offering the next generation a unique opportunity to be there.
Sixteen guest places have been reserved for young, aspiring sports journalists (writers, broadcasters and photographers), who can enjoy a slap-up meal and to see the best in the industry receive their prizes. As a bonus, the short-listed photographic entries are available to view in an exhibition.
So, if you are on that first rung and a night out at the SJAs appeals, then please send an email to info@sportsjournalists.co.uk with your details – we will try to split the 16 into print, broadcast and photography. Travel to and from the venue will be at your expense.
Here’s a quick taster of SJA 2016.
The Telegraph’s Paul Hayward was named sports writer of the year, while Daniel Taylor of The Guardian won scoop of the year after his expose on sex abuse in the industry. Taylor was also football journalist of the year.
BBC’s John Murray was sports commentator of 2016 with Eleanor Oldroyd the sports presenter of the year. Broadcasting big-hitters Sky Sports and TalkSport were also in the prizes.
Alex Livesey of Getty Images won the Ed Lacey Trophy for photographer of the year, freelance Myriam Cawston flew the flag for women with her sport picture of the year and The Sun’s Richard Pelham took top prize in the football picture category.
To the youngsters of today, who think they are watching the unreachable, consider that last year’s winner of the David Welch student writer award, Katie Smith, is now a recognised freelance with the BBC and Telegraph. The Ian Wooldridge award is also for young writers.
Then there is the king of the regionals. Jon Colman of Cumbrian Newspapers has made that prize his own in recent years.
Traditionally, journalists like a good night out. So perhaps we should add that the bar is open late!
The SJA charity partner for the British Sports and British Sports Journalism Awards is Alzheimer’s Society. Unite now – text UNITE to 70677 to donate £3 a month or visit alzheimers.org.uk/donatetoday