The University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Journalism and Mass Communications recently announced the winners of the Lynn and Dana Roper Sports Writing Competition.
The annual competition tests students’ ability to produce clear, concise, accurate and compelling stories about sports. The first-place winner received a $2,500 cash award, second place $2,000, third place $1,500 and fourth place $1,000.
The winners, with their year in school, major(s), hometown and award-winning entries, are:
First place: Kevin Artiles Fernandez, senior, accounting, and sports media and communication, Havana, Cuba; “Reagan Raabe and a journey back from rock bottom,” “Ryan Tan: The evolution of an esports competitor”
Second place: Ben Beecham, senior, advertising and public relations, and sports media and communication, Papillion, Nebraska; “‘It was really special’: Arkansas’ Gage Wood record pitching sends Murray State home,” “USA Triathlon event brings athletes’ grit and smiles to Omaha's Cunningham Lake”
Third place: Danny Berg, junior, broadcasting, and sports media and communication, Chicago, Illinois; “Nebraska volleyball’s dream season comes to a whimpering end,” “What student athletes really carry and who helps them carry it”
Fourth place: Anthony Rubek, senior, journalism, and sports media and communication, La Vista, Nebraska; “Nebraska alumni honored to represent Huskers again,” “Las Vegas Bowl loss sets Nebraska up for make-or-break offseason”
Each student submitted two published sports stories and their resume to be reviewed by judges. This year’s judges were Amie Just, sports columnist for the Lincoln Journal Star; Max Olson, college football reporter for ESPN; and Mitch Sherman, staff writer for The Athletic.
Established in 2001, the competition is open to all undergraduate and graduate students in the journalism college.
