Meet the 2020 Award Winners: Alabama Sportswriter Ben Thomas

This award spotlight is on NSMA 2020 Alabama Sportswriter of the Year, Ben Thomas. Ben Thomas has worked for various Alabama media outlets for the last 30 years. His work has been published in The Guardian, The Washington Times, Discover Magazine. Just to name a few. Ben currently covers high school sports in the Mobile area in Alabama. He is a well-deserving, first-time winner of the NSMA 2020 Sportswriter of the Year award.

Thomas was interviewed by NSMA intern Sahil Dhawan on his career and the industry as a whole.

This award spotlight is on NSMA 2020 Alabama Sportswriter of the Year, Ben Thomas. Ben Thomas has worked for various Alabama media outlets for the last 30 years. His work has been published in The Guardian, The Washington Times, Discover Magazine. Just to name a few. Ben currently covers high school sports in the Mobile area in Alabama. He is a well-deserving, first-time winner of the NSMA 2020 Sportswriter of the year award.

Thomas was interviewed by NSMA intern Sahil Dhawan on his career and the industry as a whole.

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

Ben: Started my career in Gadsden, Alabama. Worked with Jimmy Smothers and learned from him. Moved to Montgomery and worked as a sports editor. Has traveled ad covered Alabama/Auburn football, Andre Agassi's tennis career, and even the World Series. Have transitioned to covering HS Sports and love it.

NSMA: What is your favorite thing about your job?

Ben: The impact I can have on the kids. My work can mean a lot to them.

NSMA: How has the transition been covering high school sports during Covid-19?

Ben: Honestly, I've always had things to write about, even in the pandemic, and I am grateful for that.

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

Ben: Take pride in everything you do, because everything you write or publish has your name on it.

You may watch the entire interview here: