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NJ Sports Journalism Awards Announce 2025 Winners

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, March 19th 2026 at 2:48 GMT by NorthJersey.com
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Wayne, NJ - March 19th, 2026 - The Bergen Record and NJ Daily Record have announced the winners of the prestigious 2025 New Jersey Sports Journalism Awards, recognizing exceptional reporting and storytelling across the Garden State's vibrant sports scene. The awards, a tradition dating back to 1983, celebrated work produced throughout 2025 and highlight not only the talent of New Jersey's sports journalists but also the evolving ways in which sports news is delivered and consumed.

The annual awards ceremony, slated for May, serves as a vital reminder of the crucial role journalism plays in documenting athletic achievement, investigating critical issues, and fostering community engagement. This year's winners demonstrate a commitment to thorough reporting, compelling narratives, and innovative use of multimedia platforms.

A Diverse Range of Award-Winning Work

The 2025 awards span a wide array of categories, showcasing the breadth and depth of sports coverage in New Jersey. Mike Chernock of The Record took first place in the Breaking News category with his report on a tragic incident at Bergenview Stadium. The immediacy and sensitivity of this coverage undoubtedly played a key role in its recognition. In contrast, Brendan Kuty of NJ.com's first-place win for Feature Writing - 'The legacy of coach John Smith' - highlights the power of long-form storytelling to celebrate individuals who shape the athletic landscape. These kinds of features move beyond scores and statistics, delving into the human elements that make sports so captivating.

Anthony DePalma of The Record captured the excitement of competition with his Game Story, a double-overtime thriller between the Spartans and Wildcats. Winning game stories are more than just recaps; they paint a vivid picture of the atmosphere, the key moments, and the emotions of the players and fans.

Recognizing the growing popularity of audio content, James Kratchko of NJ.com was honored for his Podcast, 'The Football Fix'. This win illustrates the shift in media consumption habits, with listeners increasingly turning to podcasts for in-depth analysis and engaging sports discussions. Similarly, Patrick Madigan's Video piece - 'A day in the life of a high school athlete' - exemplifies the power of visual storytelling to connect audiences with the athletes on a personal level.

Beyond the Game: Investigative Reporting and Multimedia Innovation

Beyond the on-field action, the 2025 awards also acknowledge critical reporting. Andrew Conway of The Record's Enterprise Reporting award-winning investigation into corruption in youth hockey served as a potent reminder of journalism's role as a watchdog. Such investigative work holds organizations accountable and protects the integrity of youth sports, which are so important to many communities.

Josh Dunham of NJ.com's Multimedia award - an interactive map of N.J. sports facilities - showcases the innovative use of technology to enhance storytelling. This type of engaging content offers viewers a dynamic and informative way to explore the state's sporting infrastructure. The Sports Photography award, won by Craig Ostenson of The Record for an action shot from a championship game, underscores the enduring power of a compelling image to capture a defining moment in sports history.

Mitchell Silverstein of NJ.com, recognized for Beat Writing on the Seton Hall Pirates, exemplifies the importance of dedicated, consistent coverage. Beat writers build trust with sources and provide fans with nuanced insights into their favorite teams. Jerry Cario's Column Writing award, focused on the rise of the Franklin High football program, demonstrates the ability of a skilled columnist to offer insightful analysis and spark meaningful conversations.

The Future of New Jersey Sports Journalism The longevity of the Bergen Record and NJ Daily Record's awards program - now in its fourth decade - is a testament to the enduring value of local sports journalism. However, the media landscape is rapidly changing. The increasing reliance on digital platforms, the rise of social media, and the demand for instant updates present both challenges and opportunities for sports journalists. Successful news organizations will need to continue embracing innovation, experimenting with new formats, and prioritizing quality storytelling. The winners of the 2025 New Jersey Sports Journalism Awards represent the best of the present, but they also offer a glimpse into the future - a future where compelling, ethical, and multi-faceted sports coverage remains more important than ever.