Three talented sports writers from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and USA TODAY Network-Wisconsin have earned top-10 honors in the prestigious Associated Press Sports Editors (APSE) contest—a true testament to their dedication and storytelling prowess. In the world of sports journalism, this national recognition places them among the elite, competing against the largest news organizations across the country.
Leading the charge is Ryan Wood, who covers the Green Bay Packers for the Green Bay Press-Gazette. Wood secured an impressive fourth place in Division A team beat writing, the highest tier that includes heavyweights like the Chicago Tribune, ESPN.com, The Athletic, the Dallas Morning News, and the San Francisco Chronicle. His winning portfolio featured a compelling mix of breaking news, event coverage, and enterprise pieces, including a feature on Micah Parsons gearing up for his first season with the Packers, a look at Matthew Golden settling into his new home after being drafted, and an analysis of the team's struggles with predictability in their running game.
Not far behind, Milwaukee Brewers beat reporter Curt Hogg took seventh place in the same division, earning one of six first-place votes along the way. Hogg's standout submissions included a poignant conversation with Brewers manager Pat Murphy following the passing of broadcasting legend Bob Uecker, a detailed account of the Brewers' playoff loss to the Dodgers, a collection of revealing anecdotes about outfielder Sal Frelick's character, and a deep dive into the team's obsession with "swing decisions."
Rounding out the accolades, Zac Bellman placed 10th in Division A high school beat writing, showcasing the depth of local sports coverage. His portfolio featured a State Supreme Court ruling that impacted high school athletics, demonstrating his ability to tackle complex stories that resonate with the community. The Boston Globe's Matt Porter took first place in that category, but Bellman's recognition highlights the strength of Wisconsin's sports journalism.
These achievements reflect the passion and expertise that go into every story—whether it's the roar of a packed Lambeau Field, the crack of a bat at American Family Field, or the excitement of Friday night lights. For fans who live and breathe Wisconsin sports, these writers bring the action to life, and their top-10 finishes are a win for the entire state.