Meet the 2019 Award Winners: Minnesota Sportswriter Michael Russo

Today’s award spotlight is on NSMA 2019 Minnesota Sportswriter of the Year, Michael Russo. Russo is a senior writer for The Athletic, covering the Minnesota Wild and the NHL for the past three years. He’s covered NHL for the past 26 years, previously for the South Florida Sun-Sentinel and Minneapolis Star Tribune. He also has two podcasts called Worst Seat in the House and Straight for the Source, as well as broadcasting work on Fox Sports North and KFAN on 100.3-FM.

This will be Russo’s fourth win as Minnesota’s Sportscaster of the Year, his first win being in 2011 for his work at the Minneapolis Star Tribune. His beat writing for HNL was also celebrated when he was named the Red Fisher Award winner in 2017.

Russo briefly spoke with NSMA on his career and other thoughts regarding the industry.

NSMA: What was your career path like on the way to your current position?

Michael Russo: Worked at the Sun-Sentinel from 1990-2005 and the Star Tribune from 2005-17

NSMA: What is your favorite thing about your job?

MR: Covering hockey in person, now more than ever

NSMA: What has been the biggest highlight of your career so far?

MR: 4-time NSMA Minnesota Sportswriter of the Year

NSMA: What is the best piece of advice you have for people pursuing a career in sports media?

MR: Work ethic, honesty, and passion is more important than talent

Written by NSMA intern, Brian Cohen