Meet the 2020 Award Winners: Hawaii Sportscaster Rob DeMello

This award spotlight is on NSMA 2020 Hawaii Sportscaster of the Year, Rob DeMello, a third time NSMA winner! Rob is the sports director at KHON-TV.

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

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

Rob: When I was six years old, I told my teachers and family that I was going to be a sportscaster. I was always very energetic, loved sports and writing. Watching TV, I would gravitate towards the sportscast and really watch it. It became part of my identity growing up. By my luck, when I was 15, I met Neil Everett. Who at the time, worked in Hawaii but is now at ESPN. When I met him, I told him about my aspirations. He told me if I improved my grades I can shadow him and learn from under him. That was all the motivation I needed. I then pursued it deeper in college and got a position at an CBS affiliate. The rest is history.

NSMA: What is your favorite part of the job?

Rob: My favorite part of the job is where I am doing it. I am so passionate about Hawaii sports. I of course love sports, but Hawaii sports is my true love. Everything I do surrounds the Hawaii sports atmosphere. Following all of the athletes that come from here. Being the middle man of fans and athletes.

NSMA: What's some advice you can give those new to the industry?

Rob: One is to outwork yourself. If you think this is as hard you can work, beat that. Compete with yourself. The way I've always felt is the people are watching you. Be the best you can. Another thing is you can't do it alone. I am fortunate to have a great team. We cover these sports together.

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

Rob: It would have to be covering the 2014 Heisman Trophy Ceremony that Marcus Mariota won. It's something that transcended sports. I consider it to be one of the biggest stories in the history of Hawaii. The whole story, of his background and underdog story. That is one of the most prestigious individual awards in all of sports. He spoke to the people of Hawaii and fellow Polynesian athletes in his speech. It was special.

You may watch the entire interview here:

Written by NSMA Intern,

Sahil Dhawan