Athens Paper Scores Big in Sports Writing Contest

The Athens Banner‑Herald has been recognized by the Associated Press Sports Editors for its excellence in sports journalism during 2025. The paper belongs to Division D, the fourth level of the competition that sorts entries by overall print and digital readership. Among its standout contributors is Marc Weiszer, a writer covering the University of Georgia. He earned a top‑ten spot for his reporting on the 2025 Sugar Bowl, where Georgia faced Notre Dame. Weiszer’s pieces highlighted not only the game but also a serious incident that occurred in New Orleans on the day of the matchup. His stories addressed the tragic truck crash that claimed 15 lives, the emotional toll on Georgia fans, and how the event shifted the tone of the bowl.

Another highlight came from Sara Tidwell, a sports reporter for the same paper. She was named in the top ten for the Short Feature category, delivering a moving profile of two cheerleaders from North Oconee. Her article blended personal detail with broader community themes, earning praise from the judging panel. The APSE awards are decided by a national jury that ranks entries from first to tenth. Winners in each category are announced between late March and early April, and they receive their trophies at the APSE summer convention in Arlington, Virginia, from July 16‑18. This recognition places the Athens Banner‑Herald among a select group of regional papers that excel in storytelling and investigative reporting within the sports arena.

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