Hockey Hall of Fame sportswriter Scott Burnside visits Newhouse ahead of 2026 Olympics
SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Next week, Scott Burnside is heading to Milano Cortina to write for the 2026 Winter Olympics for the NHL Players’ Association. On Wednesday, the 2024 Hockey Hall of Fame inductee was at Syracuse University, talking with students about versatility, the importance of building relationships and the upcoming Olympics.
The conversation, hosted by the Newhouse Sports Media Center and moderated by Nico Horning ’26, took place in the Time Warner Room at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications.
Burnside has been writing about the NHL since 1997 for a variety of outlets including ESPN, USA Today, The Athletic and, most recently, the NHLPA. Yet his career hasn’t been limited to print journalism. Through the years, Burnside has made countless appearances on hockey-themed television programs, radio shows and podcasts. Versatility, Burnside stressed, is a must for young journalists entering the job market.
“It’s about trying to be as good as you can be at as many things that you can be good at,” Burnside said. “If you can come to the table with a bunch of things you can do, that makes you attractive.”
Equally important to versatility is the ability to build relationships with players, coaches and organizations. Burnside reflected on some of his favorite career moments including extensive one-on-one time with Penguins Star Sidney Crosby during the Pittsburgh captain’s day with the Stanley Cup in Nova Scotia in 2009.
He also referenced being one of only two reporters with behind-the-scenes access to USA Hockey’s process for selecting the 2014 Olympic roster. None of that, Burnside emphasized, would have been possible without the relationships he’d built. The key to building relationships, he said, is transparency.
“Be honest about what you’re writing, how you’re approaching the story and the people you’re talking to as you build out the story,” Burnside said. “As often as possible, explain the story you’re working on and engage them in the process.”
This February will be Burnside’s fourth Winter Olympics, but these Games figure to be extra special because it’s the first time since 2014 that NHL players will be participating. Because of the relationships he’s built and the respect he’s earned from the hockey community, Burnside will have more access to the players and their families in Milano Cortina than most other journalists. Still, he said he’s not treating this assignment any differently than stories in years past.
“I try and approach every story with the same eye,” Burnside said. “I just ask myself: ‘What would I want to read about?’”
Newhouse alum Jon Frankel returns home to talk storytelling
SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Jon Frankel ’86 has spent much of his career chasing stories far beyond the box score. The former HBO Sports correspondent returned to Syracuse to talk with students about storytelling, journalism and how the craft has evolved in a rapidly changing media landscape.
The conversation, hosted by the Newhouse Sports Media Center and moderated by Matt Park ’97, took place in the Ed Levine Room at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications.
Frankel spent nearly two decades traveling the country for Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel, producing long-form segments that explored the human side of sports. While reflecting on how the industry has changed, he emphasized that the core of journalism has remained the same.
“It’s just listening — that’s all this is,” Frankel said. “If you’re curious, you can tell great stories. That’s why journalism has become so democratic.”
Frankel encouraged students to remain open to unexpected angles, describing his reporting process as “peeling back the onion,” layering research and context around a central human story.
Frankel walked students through the development of one of his Real Sports segments on high school football coach Kevin Kelley, who challenged conventional thinking by refusing to punt and instead relying on onside kick attempts. The piece examined psychology, statistics and decision-making in sports.
“As soon as I care about one person, then I can start peeling back the onion,” Frankel said. “Then I can start telling you more about the facts.”
Throughout the discussion, Frankel stressed that strong journalism depends on compelling storytelling, arguing that facts resonate most when anchored in human-centered narratives.
“If you don’t care, it’s like watching a show where you don’t like the characters,” Frankel said. “You don’t want to spend that much time with them.”
Frankel encouraged students to take initiative and pursue stories independently, noting that advances in technology have lowered traditional barriers to entry in the field.
“You don’t need a crew of five or seven anymore,” Frankel said. “If you have a story idea, go do it.”
‘Miami Mika’ Records First Hat-Trick in NHL Winter Classic History in Inaugural Outdoor Matchup in Miami.
MIAMI — The Florida Panthers and New York Rangers matched up at loanDepot Park, home to the MLB’s Miami Marlins, in front of a sold-out crowd at the NHL’s southernmost outdoor hockey game in the 17th Winter Classic on January 2nd.
The two-time defending Stanley Cup champion Panthers hosted the Rangers for a crucial game 36 miles south of their usual home in Sunrise, Florida, in the second warmest game in NHL history. Both teams currently sit outside of the playoff bubble in a tightly contested Eastern Conference, increasing the stakes for this preliminary outdoor matchup in Miami.
Both teams opted for all white outfits in their entrances in the ballpark, paying homage to the popular 80’s TV series “Miami Vice”, with the hometown Panthers arriving in sports cars.
The pregame theatrics continued with popular Latin artist ‘Luis Fonsi’ performing in Spanish as both teams hit the ice, singing ‘Despacito’ as the Panthers entered. Artificial snow fell as the teams came out and a massive American flag filled up the ice during the national anthem.
It was all Ranger fans making noise when the final whistle blew at loanDepot Park as they cheered on their Blueshirts to a 5-1 win.
Both teams adjusted to the new ice surface with the roof open for the first time in the stadium. The Panthers were in the offensive zone for the beginning of the first period, drawing two penalties. The Rangers killed both penalties and were awarded a power play with over five minutes left in the first period.
Alexis Lafreniere skated down the left wing and threaded the needle to Mika Zibanejad, who buried the feed past Florida netminder Sergei Bobrovsky for a first period Rangers lead.
Over a minute later, as the first period was winding down, Artemi Panarin threw a shot on goal from the blueline, which found its way to the back of the net to make it 2-0 after the first 20 minutes.
Pop artist ‘Role Model’ performed two songs during the first intermission including hit song, “Sally, When the Wine Runs Out”, which saw star Panthers players Matthew Tkachuk and Sasha Barkov holding up the Stanley Cup in a surprise entrance.
The Rangers came into the second period on a power play that carried over from the end of the first. Just 58 seconds into the period and as the man advantage expired, Vincent Trocheck brought the puck up the neutral zone and lost an edge but still managed to send a pass to Lafreniere who found Zibanejad on a two on one to make it 3-0.
The Rangers carried that lead into the third period with goalie Igor Shesterkin making key saves to keep the Panthers off the scoreboard. Early in the third, Sam Reinhart buried a rebound past Shesterkin on the power play to make it a two-goal game 3-1. With less than ten minutes left, the Rangers were awarded a power play of their own.
The man-advantage was dominant for New York, with Artemi Panarin scoring his second of the game to make it a 4-1 game. The Panthers pulled their goalie in the final two minutes, but Zibanejad scored the empty net goal for his third goal of the game.
Zibanejad’s hat-trick was the first in Winter Classic history. Along with two assists on the night, Zibanejad’s five-point game was also the first in a Winter Classic.
“It’s been pretty uneasy for us this year, but it was nice for us to get, not just for our teammates and family, but our fans too”, said Zibanejad after the game.
Zibanejad was awarded the “Cocoa Cup” as the game’s MVP for his five-point performance and the Rangers improved to 3-0-0 in Winter Classics and 6-0-0 in outdoor contests.
“For the players and families, it’s an opportunity to create lifelong memories…we’ll talk about these events 20 years from now”, said Ranger’s Head Coach Mike Sullivan.
“I think for us to have an opportunity to share it with those people [family and friends], events like this, is a great way for us to say thank you for everything they do and have done for us over the years to allow us the opportunity to participate in these events”.
Both teams will look to use this event to gain momentum for the rest of the season in a highly competitive Eastern Conference playoff race and the NHL will use it as proof it can play outdoor hockey anywhere.
*Newhouse student Benjamin Lefkowitz aided with the creation of this article*
Hockey in the Sunshine State: Inside the 2026 Winter Classic
Have you ever heard of outdoor ice hockey being played in Miami? The answer to that question is probably no, and the idea sounds unrealistic to most people before this weekend. But that is exactly what the NHL delivered to its fans on January 2nd in a unique matchup featuring the Florida Panthers and New York Rangers at loanDepot Park in Miami.
Newhouse students Benjamin Lefkowitz and Brian Piendel were sent down to Miami to cover the event and met up with Newhouse alumni and hockey royalty during the sold-out hockey event.
The event started the day before with practice, family skate and media availability for both teams. The teams saw the conditions of the ice and took in the unique surrounding environment for the first time.
“For most of the league it’s not every year that you get an opportunity to go through something like this, so you’ve got to take it all in”, said Panthers forward Sam Reinhart about the event.
During the Panther’s practice, we connected with Liam McHugh (G’04), studio host for the NHL on TNT, and asked him about the last impact Newhouse has had on his career.
With the Winter Classic in full swing, Olympics teams were also being announced for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 next month. Rangers Head Coach, Mike Sullivan, will be the United States Head Coach for the winter games and was asked about players included and snubbed from the team throughout the week.
Two Rangers players, Vincent Trocheck and J.T. Miller, were named to the U.S. Team by Sullivan while the teams were in Miami.
Sullivan referred to both of his players as “glue guys” for Team USA’s roster and said that “both guys have the ability to impact the game on both sides of the puck.”
As puck drop loomed closer, we connected with Adelyn Biedenbach (G’13), VP of Communications and Broadcasting for the Florida Panthers, and asked about her experience at Newhouse.
Bill Zito, General Manager of the Florida Panthers and Assistant General Manager of the U.S. Olympic Team, showcased his “Panthers on the Prowl” initiative, a fundraiser benefitting the American Cancer Society in front of the media.
The panther statues are bought, decorated and put around Miami by celebrities and organizations in hopes of raising $1 million for cancer research under Zito’s supervision.
“We look at this event with enthusiasm; this is just the beginning. What else can we do? What other fun, fantastic, wonderful days can we have under our mission as the Florida Panthers?” said Zito about the Winter Classic.
The NHL hosted a “Fan Fest” in a park outside of loanDepot that featured live music, games and fun for the visiting hockey fans before the game. During this event, we caught up with Chris Jastrzembski (G’18), Studio Researcher at TNT and recent Newhouse alum.
After our interview with Chris, both teams entered the ballpark in all white outfits, paying homage to the popular 80’s TV show ‘Miami Vice’. The Panthers elevated their entrance by showing up in sports cars, playing up to the vibe of Miami, and showing off in front of their home fans.
Before the puck dropped, Jonny Lazarus, Content Creator for B/R Open Ice and host for DailyFaceoff.com, shared his perspective on the weekend with us.
The festivities continued off the ice with a performance by ‘Luis Fonsi’ as the teams walked out of the dugout and ‘Role Model’ during the first intermission.
The Rangers had no problem handling the two-time defending champion Florida Panthers with a 5-1 victory on the road. The traveling Rangers fans took over the ballpark post-game with nothing but “let’s go Rangers” being heard throughout the surrounding area.
Despite the lopsided score, the experience was significant for both teams and the NHL as a whole, proving that outdoor hockey can be played anywhere.
“I would have never thought that I would play in a Winter Classic in Miami…Everything leading up to this game has been awesome and very unique and an experience we’re all going to remember for the rest of our lives”, said Panthers forward Anton Lundell.
The 2026 Winter Classic will go down in hockey history as a great experiment for NHL, and it was a fantastic event for the Newhouse School.
*All videos and full takeover are available on Instagram @newhousesportssu in an archived story labeled “Winter Classic”. *
Voice of the Orange, Matt Park ’97 Receives Marty Glickman Award
SYRACUSE, N.Y. –– The Newhouse Sports Media Center announced on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025, that Matt Park ’97 is the tenth recipient of the Marty Glickman Award for Leadership in Sports Media.
The S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications presented the Marty Glickman Award on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025, in the Joyce Hergenhan Auditorium (Room 140 Newhouse 3). Named for sportscasting pioneer and 1939 Syracuse University graduate Marty Glickman, the award recognizes individuals for their leadership in sports media.
The Voice of the Orange and adjunct professor, Matt Park, is the lead play-by-play announcer for Syracuse University Football and Basketball broadcasts on the Syracuse IMG Sports Network. Park joined the Syracuse ISP Sports Network in 2003 and hosted the Doug Marrone and Jim Boeheim Shows in July 2004. Previous Marty Glickman Award Winner of 2024, Dan Hoard ’85 passed the honor onto Matt Park ’97.
Hoard talked about Park’s journey as an intern with him and his undeniable dedication and love for the craft. During Park’s internship with Hoard, Park would go to games and fill out scoresheets and soak every ounce of material he could. Park is the example of what it means and takes to be successful in the sports media industry. To perfect and hone in on a passionate craft is what Park excels at.
Sports Media Center Director, Olivia Stomski says,” Matt Park embodies the legacy of Marty Glickman. He has not just taught here at Newhouse for 20 years, he has served as a mentor, a coach and an advocate for countless students over the years. His fingerprint is on nearly every sports broadcast we as fans watch from home.”
Park has been woven into the foundations of Syracuse University and sports. Celtics and ESPN Lacrosse play-by-play commentator and studio host, Drew Carter ’19 said, “ Matt, I speak for every student who’s come through here in the last decade when I say thank you for the standard you’ve set at Newhouse and the direct impact you’ve had on so many of us. You deserve this.”
While current and former students went on to poke fun at Professor Park’s feedback and necessary criticisms, the same sentiment held true throughout all the lives Park has made a mark on. The value of believing in and developing the next generation of sportscasters is just one mark in Parks legacy.
Hudson Ridley, the Sports Director of WAER said,” It may be hard to find someone who cares more for WAER than Matt Park.” Hudson believes that students across Newhouse learn most from what WAER and Professor Park has to offer to students and their development in sports media.
Ridley adds on,” Young broadcasters who are new to the process may take that feedback in a discouraging way. But what they fail to realize is that if Professor Park didn’t care, why would he say anything… If Professor Park didn’t care, then we would be off the air. So, on behalf of everyone at WAER I want to say thank you for that.”
Nicholas Waley touches on Matt Park’s impact on Syracuse University’s campus. “His dedication to his students has helped produce some of the best broadcasters of this generation. His office hours on Thursday afternoons are not just difficult to get but are the most valuable office hours on this campus. It’s where I learned the most, not just as an announcer, but as a professional in this industry.”
Park goes on to say,” Tonight’s attendance is an overwhelming demonstration of the pride of the Newhouse School. From these notable alums, all of whom are so busy as everybody knows this time of year football and basketball are both going on, so it’s hard to get here. We appreciate everybody in any way you can sharing your time and treasure. To see that an so many former students who have overcome my tutelage is very heartwarming.”
“None of this happens without the continued determination of our students. Your professionalism, maturity, eagerness to learn, and trustworthiness is how this whole thing works.” Professor Park touches on how proud he is of the level of professionalism and high standards that the students at the Newhouse School exemplify and how he is unable to take full credit for the passion that runs deep without the walls of the campus.
Legendary sportscasters, Costas, McDonough, Eagle and Albert came back to Syracuse to celebrate the newest member of the Glickman award winners. Park, the voice of the Orange, credits former winners in shaping the future of sports media and creating a path for him to follow. The Newhouse Sports Media Center thanks Matt Park for all that he does for Syracuse and Newhouse students.
Previous Marty Glickman Award Winners
Bob Costas ‘74
Bob Costas, a proud member of the Orange Family, was the inaugural Glickman Award winner in 2013! From calling games at WAER to becoming one of the most iconic voices in sports, Costas has covered 12 Olympics, 10 NBA Finals, 7 Super Bowls and 7 World Series. Earning 29 Emmys along the way.
Marv Albert ‘63
Marv Albert, the legendary “Voice of Basketball,” was honored with the Marty Glickman Award in 2014! Albert began as a ball boy for the New York Knicks, where he formed a relationship with the great Marty Glickman. Through Glickman’s mentorship, Albert paved the way to a Hall-of-Fame career across the biggest stages in sports. He’s called 12 NBA Finals, 8 Stanley Cup Finals, 8 Super Bowls, and 4 Olympic Games. Along the way, he’s earned ‘Yes!’ 9 Emmy Awards and solidified his status as one of the most influential and recognizable play-by-play announcers of all time.
Beth Mowins G’90
Beth Mowins was the 2015 Marty Glickman Award winner! Best known as the voice of the Women’s College World Series, Mowins has covered NCAA Championships with volleyball, softball, basketball and soccer! As a member on the crew of a Chicago Cubs game, Mowins made history as a part of the first all-female broadcasting crew ever. Mowins has paved the way for women in play-by-play roles across the industry.
Sean McDonough ‘84
Sean McDonough was the 2016 Marty Glickman Award winner! A true broadcasting legend, McDonough has been one of sports television’s most versatile and respected voices for decades. He’s called the ’92 and ’93 World Series, covered 3 Olympic Games, and led broadcasts for Monday Night Football, the Stanley Cup Finals, and the CFB Playoff.
Mike Tirico ‘88
Mike Tirico was the 2017 recipient of the Marty Glickman Award for Leadership in Sports Media! A five-time Sports Emmy Award winner and member of the National Sports Media Hall of Fame, Tirico has called some of the biggest moments in sports and now serves as the lead play-by-play voice for both Sunday Night Football and NBA on NBC.
Ian Eagle ‘90
Ian Eagle was the 2018 winner of the Marty Glickman Award! Since 8 years old, Eagle knew what he wanted to do and became one of the most recognizable voices in sports broadcasting. Eagle has spent most of his career as the lead play-by-play announcer for the Brooklyn Nets with the YES network. Eagle is now also calling league games for NBA on Amazon Prime. The 2-time national sportscaster of the year and 4-time Emmy winner has exemplified excellence in the world of storytelling.
Sandy Montag ‘85
With a 40-year career spanning every corner of the sports media world, Sandy Montag has built a legacy rooted in storytelling, leadership, and innovation. As President of The Montag Group, he represents some of the most influential voices in sports, including Bob Costas, Mike Tirico, Jim Nantz, and Scott Van Pelt. Before launching his own company, Montag spent 30 years at IMG, where he began as an assistant to John Madden and went on to oversee client operations, shaping the careers of industry greats.
Dick Stockton ‘64
A legendary voice in sports broadcasting, Dick Stockton’s career has spanned over five decades and some of the most iconic moments in sports history. From calling Carlton Fisk’s unforgettable 1975 World Series home run to covering six Super Bowls, Stockton’s legacy is cemented across generations of fans. He’s been honored by both the National Sports Media Association Hall of Fame and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and was named among the Top 50 Network Sportscasters of All Time.
Dan Hoard ‘85
Dan Hoard is the 2024 Marty Glickman Award winner. From the voice of the Cincinnati Bengals to the University of Cincinnati, Dan Hoard has become one of the most respected names in sports broadcasting. A six-time Regional Emmy winner and four-time Ohio Sportscaster of the Year, Hoard’s storytelling and passion for the game have resonated with fans for decades. Having called three Super Bowls, his voice has captured some of football’s biggest moments.
Newhouse alumni share career advice at sports media panel
SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Students filled the Joyce Hergenhan Auditorium on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, to hear from three Newhouse alumni who have built successful careers in sport media.
The event, co-sponsored by the Newhouse Office of Community, Culture and Engagement, the Sports Media Center and the Office of Student Success, offered students insight into the skills, adaptability and mindset needed to thrive in the fast-paced sports media industry.
The panel, moderated by Professor Olivia Stomski, featured Robert Ford, radio voice of the Houston Astros; Jenna Elique, sports multimedia journalist with Spectrum News 1 North Carolina; and Priyanka York, vice president of operations at Overtime Elite. Panelists discussed mentorship, persistence and strategies for building a career in a competitive field, including how to position oneself for success after graduation.
“There can be a tendency– not just when you’re 18, but when you’re in your 20s too– to think that where you are, that’s where you’re always going to be, or that nothing can change, but you still have a lot of time,” Ford said. “Your career is not defined by what you do as a freshman or sophomore.”
Elique echoed the importance of persistence.
“Keep going. It’s going to be hard… My first time on TV was a trainwreck,” she said. “This place makes you obsessed with what you do… You have to stick with it, because a lot of people won’t.”
Mentorship and community also emerged as key themes. Elique credited Stomski for her guidance and support. “Even when I doubted myself, she didn’t allow me to doubt myself,” she said.
Ford pointed to the Newhouse alumni network, often called the “Newhouse Mafia,” as a valuable resource.
“So many people want to help and grow this particular subset of people… That [community] is something to take advantage of,” he said.
During the audience Q&A, students asked about connecting with new communities as a transplant reporter. Elique described her first assignment in Midland, Texas, as a small-market challenge. She encouraged students to stick with their hobbies and immerse themselves in the community, which helps build relationships and uncover story ideas. She reminded them to keep an open mind.
York said standing out in digital media requires creativity and strategic engagement. She encouraged students to develop out-of-the-box ideas that connect with audiences authentically, noting that viral moments are fleeting but can amplify a story.
The panel concluded with students networking with the panelists and continuing the conversation about maximizing their time at Newhouse and preparing for success in the evolving world of sports media.
ARENA Founder Justin Gest Pushes for a New Kind of Social Media
SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Students gathered in the Miron Room at Newhouse to hear from Justin Gest, CEO and co-founder of ARENA, a new platform that reimagines social media as an open market for ideas.
Gest is an award-winning scholar and professor. He has taught at George Mason University and Harvard University and written for several of the nation’s leading newspapers.
He discussed how ARENA aims to “reward being right” rather than being loud and described how the industry’s shifting incentives pushed him to think differently about how knowledge is valued.
“I feel completely sidelined in today’s media environment,” Gest said. “I do not think that today’s media environment is wired in such a way that people with knowledge matter… what matters is outrage.”
He added that social media’s structure amplifies this trend.
“We are incentivized towards producing outrage,” he said. “It’s the way you get clicks; it’s the way you get eyeballs… guess what? Everyone’s going to produce outrage.”
Out of that frustration, Gest said, ARENA was born – a kind of “revenge project” meant to reward accuracy and foresight instead of virality.
“ARENA is a debate platform that reimagines social media as a stock market for ideas,” he explained. “The market is the arbiter of value… you are buying ideas that you think will gain more popularity or consensus.”
He described the platform as fostering “a race to the top, rather than today’s race to the bottom.” On ARENA, users earn credibility by getting things right, not by generating attention.
Gest spoke directly to the Newhouse students in attendance, saying Gen Z is key to building the next generation of informed, accountable commentators.
“We think we’re going to launch a new generation of pundits — not known for how they look, but because they get things correct,” he said. “I don’t want 40-year-olds editing our pages. I want 19-year-olds editing our pages.”
Gest’s talk challenged students to think critically about the future of media, and to imagine digital spaces where credibility, not controversy, drives conversation.
A Conversation with Joel Mandelbaum
SYRACUSE N.Y. — There’s no straight answer to reaching your goals.
Joel Mandelbaum, a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Digital Journalism in ’87, returns to Newhouse and talks to students about his trajectory in the sports industry and how he got started in the sports television.
Working in the industry for almost 4 decades now, Mandelbaum shared some of his unique stories and how he started in the industry and where he is now. He began his career earning $6.50/hr as a page at NBC Sports, delivering mail to producers and directors and answering phone calls in the offices. He refers to that as the start of his career stating, “getting that face time is really key in any career you do..scratch and claw for FaceTime because it matters.”
He spoke to his openness to take positions that did don’t always align with his end goal, because you never now what door it will open for you or where you’re going to go.
Mandelbaum started his career NBC where he had production assignments for Wimbledon, NFL Football games and the Summer Olympics. He’s also worked with TBS and TNT with both regular season and NHL playoff games. In 1991, he joined MSG Networks working as the director of studio broadcasts for both the New York Rangers Hockey and New York Knicks Basketball teams. In 2017, he took over as the director for MSG’s broadcast coverage for the New York Islanders and has been with them ever since.
Mandelbaum touched on a key aspect of a competitive sports industry; that there’s no cookie cutter route to the top. “In this field it doesn’t work that way. You’ve got to scratch and claw for every piece of experience you can get…” He goes on to say, “…hear everything people are trying to advise you on, and listen to what you think is important and take that with you.”
Mandelbaum shared a story of a conversation with his dad that resonated with him and said, “Never give up your dream.” He urged students to stay patient in this industry and give yourself time to get to where you want to be.
Welcome Back Joel Mandelbaum ’87 to the SMC
Friday September 12th, 2 p.m., Newhouse 3, Room 432 (I-3 Center)
Please join then Newhouse Sports Media Center as we welcome back Joel Mandelbaum ’87 to campus. Joel Mandelbaum has been working in the sports television production business for close to four decades. He has covered a wide range of sports: from hockey to basketball, football, baseball, soccer, tennis and track. Mandelbaum has experience working both “live events” and “studio shows” for the Madison Square Garden Networks since 1991 and has served as the Director for MSG Network’s broadcast coverage of New York Islanders Hockey since 2017. Welcome home Joel Mandelbaum for a conversation with Adrianna Leone!
For accommodations or media requests, please email msmith@syr.edu
A Conversation with ESPN Producer Doug Whitehorn ’10 Visits the SMC
Wednesday September 10th, 5pm, Newhouse 3, Room 432
Please join then Newhouse Sports Media Center as we welcome back ESPN Producer Doug Whitehorn ’10 to speak. Doug is a producer in ESPN event production department. Whitehorn has worked 4 NBA Finals, the 2014 FIFA World Cup, the 2022 Stanley Cup Final, and been a part of ESPN’s Sunday Night Baseball, Basketball, College Football teams. We welcome Doug Whitehorn for a conversation with Rhianna Abeel.
For accommodations or media requests, please email msmith@syr.edu
A Conversation With Bill Spaulding
SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Bill Spaulding, a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications with a Bachelor of Science in Broadcast and Digital Journalism in ’13, returned to Syracuse to share his journey as a versatile play-by-play broadcaster.
On September 5th at 4p.m., Spaulding shared his insight and experience working with NBC Olympics, ESPN, The New Jersey Devils on MSG, USA Track & Field, Boston College, Harvard University and Northeastern University. Having a collection of experiences, Spaulding admitted that to get to where he is in his career now, required a focus on being versatile and possessing a well-rounded knowledge in multiple sports.
Since his first Olympic assignment in 2016 at age 24, Spaulding has covered an impressive span of sports for NBC, including judo, fencing, competitive swimming, track and field, ski jumping and many more. Spaulding’s first covered Olympic event, Judo, started as a crash course. “I knew very little and ended up watching tons of YouTube videos to learn the rules,” Spaulding said, explaining how adaptability became his competitive edge in the industry. “There are a lot less people trying to call fencing or judo… You want to be someone with the reputation of saying yes.”
Spaulding touched on the key differences between working for a team and national broadcast. He described the differences as a team allows for a closer connection with fans and players, whereas a national broadcast demands bridging the gaps for the casual viewers. To work for a national broadcast like NBC, is understanding that the audience is not filled with team ‘sports nerds.’ There is a different story to be told for a national broadcast. Spaulding says, “At the end of the day your job is to tell the story of the who, what, when and where. A sports analyst answers the why.”
Spaulding’s advice to students was clear. Do extensive research, overprepare for games, say yes often, and build meaningful connections within the industry. “Don’t just diversify what you call but in who you connect with.”
Play-by-Play Pro Bill Spaulding ’13 Visits the SMC
Voice of the Orange, Matt Park ’97, hosts a conversation with MSG’s Bill Spaulding
Friday September 5th, 4pm, Newhouse 1, 102
Please join then Newhouse Sports Media Center for our first speaker event of the Fall! We welcome home Play-by-Play veteran Bill Spaulding for a conversation with Matt Park.
For accommodations or media requests, please email nhsports@syr.edu
Ascending sports broadcaster Noah Eagle ’19 returns to alma mater
SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Six years after graduating, sports broadcaster Noah Eagle ’19 returned to the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications on Friday, May 2, to share how he went from calling Syracuse games to covering Super Bowls, the Olympics, and the NFL’s debut on Netflix.
Eagle has been a rising star in the sports broadcasting industry since graduating from Newhouse. While at Syracuse, he broadcast various sports, including basketball, football, and lacrosse.
Eagle auditioned for the Los Angeles Clippers’ TV play-by-play job a month before graduation but did not get the position. The organization offered him the opportunity to be the new radio play-by-play voice for the Clippers for the 2019-2020 season.
Eagle said the hardest job to get is the first one.
“Once you get the first job, it’s like dominoes; that first domino falls, and the rest of them just kind of circle around,” Eagle said.
Eagle received the opportunity to cover 3×3 basketball for NBC Sports’ coverage of the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Japan.
Since 2022, Eagle has broadcast preseason games for the Los Angeles Chargers on KCBS-TV with Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Dan Fouts.
He has called special National Football League (NFL) games with former NFL wide receiver Nate Burleson for Nickelodeon. During the 2023 season, Eagle and Burleson called the Christmas Day game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Las Vegas Raiders at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. The two teamed up again two months later for Super Bowl LVIII at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada, as the San Francisco 49ers squared off against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Eagle joined NBC Sports in 2023. NBC announced in February 2023 that he would be the play-by-play announcer for the Big Ten Saturday Night Football package and the Big Ten basketball package on Peacock.
He left the Clippers in September 2023 to join the YES Network as the alternate TV play-by-play announcer for his father, renowned broadcaster and Newhouse alum Ian Eagle ’90, and ESPN sportscaster Ryan Ruocco.
Eagle and veteran analyst Todd Blackledge broadcast the 2023 Wild Card game between the Cleveland Browns and the Houston Texans. The duo would return to the booth for the NFL’s first game in Brazil on Peacock when the Green Bay Packers faced the Philadelphia Eagles during the first week of the 2024 season.
In the summer of 2024, Eagle served as the play-by-play voice of Team USA men’s and women’s basketball at the Summer Olympics in Paris, France. He worked with 2008 Beijing Olympic Gold medalist and three-time NBA Champion Dwayne Wade for the men’s games. Eagle teamed up with long-time WNBA and college basketball analyst LaChina Robinson for the women’s games. The United States men’s and women’s basketball teams beat France to capture the gold medal.
Eagle became the lead play-by-play announcer for the 2024 French Open tennis tournament on NBC Sports and Peacock. He worked alongside analysts Mary Carillo and John McEnroe, who teamed up in 1977 to win the mixed doubles title at the French Open. McEnroe won seven Grand Slam singles titles.
Eagle broadcast one of two NFL games on Christmas Day 2024 for Netflix this past season, the streaming service’s first NFL broadcasts. Ian Eagle broadcast the other game.
Noah Eagle won a Sports Emmy Award for Outstanding Personality/Emerging On Air in May 2024. NBC regained the broadcasting rights to the upcoming NBA season, and Eagle will be the No. 2 play-by-play voice, while Newhouse alum Mike Tirico ’88 will serve as the lead announcer.
After Eagle spoke about his career, Newhouse students had an opportunity to ask him questions about the industry. Some questions focused on networking and improving your craft on the air.
Eagle said it is essential for students to establish their network.
“I really just think it’s about establishing real relationships with people. And the more real relationship, genuine relationship you have with a person, the more willing they are probably to go to bat for you,” Eagle said.
Eagle said there are many ways for you to hone your craft as an announcer.
“This job is actually a job where you can track your own greatness and find that greatness,” Eagle said.
The Voice of the Orange and adjunct professor Matt Park hosted the event in The Mike Tirico Room in Room 250 of Newhouse 3.
Homecoming for a voice of generations: Bob Costas ’74 returns to Newhouse
SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Legendary sports broadcaster Bob Costas ’74 will return to the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications on Wednesday, Apr. 16, to speak with students about his illustrious career in sports broadcasting and commentary.
Costas has hosted 12 Olympic Games, the Kentucky Derby, the U.S. Open Golf Championship, and HBO shows. He’s called games for the MLB, NFL, NBA, and college basketball and football.
The Newhouse Sports Media Center will host the event in the Joyce Hergenhan Auditorium in Room 140 of Newhouse 3.
Costas attended Newhouse and gained radio experience at WAER as a freshman. He also called minor league hockey games for the Syracuse Blazers of the Eastern Hockey League.
Costas began his professional career with KMOX radio in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1974. While at KMOX, Costas covered games for the Spirits of St. Louis of the American Basketball Association (ABA) and called Missouri Tigers basketball. He also co-hosted KMOX’s Open Line call-in program. From 1976 to 1979, he broadcast NFL games on CBS. During the 1979-1980 NBA season, Costas provided play-by-play for Chicago Bulls broadcasts on WGN-TV.
NBC hired Costas in 1980. He did play-by-play for NBA, NFL, and MLB games on NBC. He also anchored NBC’s pre- and post-game shows for NFL broadcasts, MLB All-Star Games, and numerous World Series.
Costas spent four decades with NBC. He was the Summer Olympics primetime host from 1992 to 2016 and the Winter Olympics primetime host from 2002 to 2014. Costas also hosted the NHL Winter Classic, the U.S. Open, Thursday Night Football, the NFL on NBC, and Thoroughbred Racing for NBC.
Costas has won many awards throughout his career. He is a 29-time Emmy Award winner. Costas is the only person in television history to win Emmys for sports, news, and entertainment. He is an eight-time National Sports Media Association National Sportscaster of the Year and a four-time American Sportscasters Association Sportscaster of the Year. Costas also has a star on the St. Louis Walk of Fame.
In 1999, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame presented Costas with the Curt Gowdy Media Award. In 2017, the National Baseball Hall of Fame honored Costas with the Ford C. Frick Award. He was named a Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame inductee in 2018.
Syracuse University has recognized Costas with three awards. In 2001, Costas won the George Arents Award for excellence in sports broadcasting. He received the Marty Glickman Award for Leadership in Sports Media in 2013 and was inducted into the WAER Hall of Fame in 2015.
Costas has been behind the mic for numerous unforgettable games in sports history. One of Costas’ most memorable broadcasts was in 1984 when he called the Saturday baseball Game of the Week for NBC. The game became known as “The Sandberg Game.” Chicago Cubs second baseman Ryne Sandberg hit home runs in the 9th and 10th innings against St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Bruce Sutter to tie the game.
Costas contributed to the Ken Burns PBS miniseries Baseball in 1994 and called game six of the 1995 World Series when the Atlanta Braves won their first championship since moving to Atlanta in 1966. He also called Derek Jeter’s final game at Yankee Stadium for MLB Network in 2014.
Costas called Michael Jordan and Phil Jackson’s final game with the Chicago Bulls in 1998. Jordan hit the game-winner to give the Bulls an 87-86 lead with 5.2 seconds remaining in game six of the NBA Finals. Costas was also the pregame and postgame host for NBC for the 1994 NBA Finals between the Houston Rockets and the New York Knicks, which included the O.J. Simpson car chase in Los Angeles that interrupted game five. Costas broadcast game seven of the 2000 Western Conference Finals between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Portland Trailblazers. Fans remember Kobe Bryant throwing an alley-oop pass to Shaquille O’Neal to give the Lakers a six-point lead with under a minute to play in regulation.
In the mid-1980s, he established the Robert Costas Scholarship at the Newhouse School, and sports broadcaster Mike Tirico was the first recipient in 1987.
Senior producer for NEP Group Mackenzie Pearce ‘21 talks with Newhouse students about her journey
Syracuse, NY – Mackenzie Pearce calls it the Girls’ Room. Pearce, the producer of NWSL on ION’s Saturday Night Soccer doubleheader wants her weekly production meetings with a coach or a player to feel like safe spaces.
“Those are the types of things that you want people to be really comfortable,” Pearce said. “Showing that you put in the work, and show that you did the research on them, they start to open up more. And I think that is really how you get to it, is putting in the research ahead of time.”
Pearce spoke with Newhouse students on Thursday evening in a session moderated by Professor Olivia Stomski, the director of the Newhouse Sports Media Center.
Pearce was one of the initial three students working for Newhouse’s ACC Network. She was a freshman with two seniors working under the direction of Professor Stomski.
“I was literally ready to transfer after my first semester,” Pearce said. “I found my own family and I think also it’s really special because you get to, I think it makes you a better person.”
Pearce started her career as a broadcast associate for MLB Network. She then got a job as a studio producer for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Pearce and her dad bonded over Steelers games as she was growing up, so the job was particularly meaningful to her.
Working for NEP producing NWSL games has been the perfect fit for her. She sees herself as a human-centered producer. Women’s soccer gives her the opportunity to tell stories that haven’t been told before, because there are less eyes on the sport.
Pearce sees being a woman in sports, particularly being a woman covering women’s sports, as an advantage.
“You understand what people want and not how to tokenize women in this sport and how to treat them as their own athletes,” Pearce said. “A lot of them have partners that play in other major leagues in this country and abroad. So I just think that giving them their flowers and not tying them to other people’s accomplishments is a really big part of it.”
Pearce still values the connections she made at Newhouse. Her classmates from Newhouse have a group chat to give each other advice and encouragement.
“Everyone’s opinion is valued and you can, you know, get your foot in the door pretty fast and, you know, learn from people who’ve already done it,” Pearce said. “I think it’s a really special thing that we have here.”
Cuse Giving Day is 3/27/25!
Thursday, March 27th is Cuse Giving Day and we are asking for support for our student experiences, experiential learning opportunities, immersions and guest speakers for the Newhouse Sports Media Center!
The best way to support Newhouse and the Newhouse Sports Media Center are to follow the directions on the graphic below. It will take a little navigating, but we know our students are worth it!
Thanks for helping us continue to provide the absolute best Sports Media experience for our students and for being part of the Newhouse Sports Family!
Little League World Series Residency Program Informational Session Recap
Brian McClintock and Kevin Fountain, representatives from Little League International, visited Newhouse to discuss an exciting summer residency program. This unique, six-week event-based communications experience is exclusively designed for Hampton University, Penn State, and Syracuse University students. The application window for individual/student placements opens on February 28 and will close at 5 p.m. ET on Monday, March 31, 2025.
“The Little League is super proud to work with Syracuse University as well as Penn State and Hampton University to bring the Little League World Series and all of our Little League tournaments to life. This experience provides students with an immersive sports event experience. It’s unmatched and really gives them that practical work experience, while also supporting dreams of kids from around the world and bringing that to life,” said Brian McClintock.
Running from July 18 to August 24, 2025, the program offers both remote and on-site roles, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in video production, media relations, and in-game entertainment.
The first phase (July to mid-August) involves remote video highlight support, including tracking multiple games, organizing media assets, and working with partners like the MLB Network/ESPN.
The second phase (mid-August to August 24) takes place on-site in Williamsport, PA, where students will assist with in-game entertainment, scoreboard operations, sponsorship activations, public relations, and multimedia storytelling. Select students may also have opportunities at the Little League Softball World Series in Greenville, NC.
This is a paid opportunity where housing and some meals will be provided upon arrival at the site. While travel expenses to and from Williamsport and/or Greenville are the student’s responsibility and won’t be covered by Little League International, transportation from any airport within a reasonable driving distance of Williamsport will be provided.
Residents will receive notifications in May regarding their selection for the program.
Students Interested in applying should visit LittleLeague.org/WSResidency to learn more!
93rd Aquinas Mission Bouts
By Stacey Collier II
ROCHESTER, NY – On March 7th, 2025, the 93rd Aquinas Mission Bouts boxing event took place at the Aquinas Institute in Rochester, New York. The event featured a total of seven bouts, a presentation of donations to the Parkinson’s Foundation, and an awards ceremony at the end to crown the best fighters of the night. The fighters included both girls and boys, ranging from grades 7-12.
Historic Overview
The Aquinas Mission Bouts began in 1932 and is held every March. The Aquinas community each year gathers in the Wegman-Napier gym to watch students, who are amateur boxers, showcase their skills in a three-round bout. Currently, the program is led by boxing coach Dom Arioli, who has dedicated his time and teachings to the program for 45 years. Coach Arioli is also the owner of ROC Boxing & Fitness and a member of the Aquinas Institute Hall of Fame. His impact has drawn in the community and the likes of legendary heavyweight boxer, Muhammad Ali.
Coach Interviews
Coach Arioli recalled the time he met Ali in Rochester in 1994. He said at dinner; Ali grabbed him by his collar and lifted him up. Then, Ali smiled at him and asked if he was the coach. After Coach Arioli said yes, Ali told him “Don’t screw it up”. That moment stuck with him throughout his career. When training fighters, Coach Arioli stated he wants them to be good people in the world and treat others with respect, along with working hard. As the Mission Bouts event approaches 100 years, Coach Arioli is optimistic the program can continue to be successful and hopes to attract more fighters. With concussions and other long-term health problems being a public concern, he wants everyone to know he prioritizes safety first and he welcomes anyone who wants to be a part of the program.
Coach Katia Chaban, also known as Coach Kat, was the scorekeeper of the event. She has been a part of the Aquinas Boxing Program for 17 years. As a former boxer, she was inspired by Coach Dom’s dedication to the program. She was introduced to Coach Dom while working as an amateur official. She went to practice and fell in love with Coach Dom’s regimen. Coach Kat says he is an incredible human being. Also, she cites community and a family environment as the source of the power of the boxing program. Many of the audience members were involved in the program as boxers and are related to the fighters who participated in this year’s event. She stated no other known tradition in the country has the longevity of Aquinas Mission Bouts Boxing.
Scott Pioli G’05 reflects on nearly three-decade career in the NFL with Newhouse students
SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Former NFL executive and three-time Super Bowl champion Scott Pioli G’05 returned to the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications on Wednesday, Mar. 5, to address students about the evolution of the NFL, women’s sports, and the importance of inclusion in sports and media.
He discussed his career as an NFL executive and his current job as an NFL analyst with NFL Network and CBS Sports. Pioli wants to advance inclusion and gender equality in sports.
Pioli received his bachelor’s degree in communications from Central Connecticut State University in 1988. After graduation, he became a graduate assistant with the Syracuse football team. In 2005, he completed his master’s in television, radio, and film from Newhouse.
Pioli’s first NFL job came in 1992 when he served as the pro personnel assistant for the Cleveland Browns. At the time, Bill Belichick served as the Browns’ head coach. Pioli and Belichick would team up again in 1997 with the New York Jets. The Jets hired Pioli as their director of pro personnel, while Belichick was the assistant head coach and defensive coordinator. They would reunite in New England in 2000. Belichick became the head coach of the Patriots, and Pioli was named the assistant director of player personnel. Pioli became the director of player personnel for the Patriots in 2001 when they won their first Super Bowl in franchise history. Heading into 2002, Pioli was promoted to vice president of player personnel and served in that role until 2008.
The Kansas City Chiefs hired Pioli as general manager in 2009. He worked there for four seasons. Pioli became the assistant general manager for the Atlanta Falcons in 2014. The Falcons went to the Super Bowl in 2016, losing 34-28 to the Patriots in overtime after leading 28-3. Pioli spent five seasons in Atlanta.
Pioli worked in the NFL for 27 years, winning three Super Bowls with the Patriots (2001, 2003 & 2004). He is a five-time NFL executive of the year. Throughout his years in football, Pioli supported the development and training of female football coaches and scouts. He created a grant at the Women’s Sports Foundation and two others for graduates of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
He is a member of the board of trustees for the Women’s Sports Foundation and a member of the National Advisory Council for Women Leaders in Sports.
Pioli is an investor in the National Women’s Soccer League’s (NWSL) Boston Unity Soccer Partners (BUSP). BUSP is an all-female ownership group that will bring an expansion team called BOS Nation FC to the NWSL in 2026.
Syracuse professor Olivia Stomski hosted the event in the Joyce Hergenhan Auditorium in Room 140 of Newhouse 3.
ESPN producer Howard Chen ’02 credits Newhouse for launching career
SYRACUSE, N.Y. – ESPN producer Howard Chen ’02 returned to the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications on Friday, Feb. 28, to address students about his career and production job at ESPN, where he covers the NBA for the company’s international partners.
Chen graduated from Newhouse in 2002 with a bachelor’s degree in broadcast and digital journalism (BDJ). He says his experiences at Newhouse helped him secure his first job as a sports reporter.
While at Syracuse, Chen aspired to be a sports broadcaster. He worked at WAER, Z89 radio, and UUTV (now Citrus TV). After his freshman year, Chen interned at Sports Radio 610 in Houston, Texas, where he learned how to write sportscasts. Over time, he shifted his focus to sports reporting and anchoring. After graduation, Chen landed a job at WHIZ-TV, the NBC station in Zanesville, Ohio, alongside two Syracuse students who graduated with him.
“[Newhouse is] giving you that foundation and that knowledge so that when you’re at a different level, you have all the tools in the world at the higher levels,” Chen said.
Chen said that numerous BDJ courses helped him become a better reporter.
“I think fundamentally, if you’re going into sports, you need to know how to be a journalist. It’s not just about the games. You just got to know how to tell a story,” Chen said.
Many years later, Chen worked for Comcast SportsNet Houston as a sideline reporter for the Houston Rockets and Astros.
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, he was one of the select few media members in the world inside the NBA bubble in Orlando, Florida.
Chen is now a producer for ESPN. He oversees coverage for ESPN’s China clientele, Tencent, where he produces for their NBA national broadcasts in China. Chen also helps with ESPN Australia and ESPN Netherlands.
Chen’s non-NBA work includes the idea of Tom Brady wishing Chinese fans a Happy Lunar New Year in Mandarin in 2017 and creating an instructional video for Brady to practice.
Syracuse Professor Olivia Stomski hosted the event in Room 102 in Newhouse 1.