On Saturday, March 8th, the National Football Foundation will honor long-time Arizona sports reporter Jody Jackson with the Achievement of Excellence in Sports Media Award.
Here’s more on Jackson and the honor.
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Jody Jackson has been a staple in sports media for the past quarter century here in Arizona.
Her hosting, reporting, and story telling from stadiums around the country have become commonplace for local sports fans.
Jackson’s work ethic and professionalism in all athletic settings has helped gain the utmost respect from the teams she covers, her peers, and the audience who consume her consistent, nearly year-round, content.
“I have to thank my parents and my upbringing for a general sense of professionalism, Jackson said. “I always wanted to do right by those who give me the opportunity to tell their stories. Treat people with kindness and empathy.
“A big reason I enjoy my job so much is that I love the people that surround me.”
Her work in the field has included traveling with the Arizona Diamondbacks and Arizona Coyotes as a member of the teams’ television flagship network. She has also served as an Arizona Cardinals host and analyst, as well as several other local projects during her tenured career here in the desert Southwest.
New 1st baseman Josh Naylor excited to get to work with his new team pic.twitter.com/SwgOhJz1qs
— Jody Jackson (@Jody_Jackson) February 10, 2025
The University of Miami graduate has always enjoyed warmer climates and quickly fell in love with the Valley.
“Nothing really beats the amount of sunshine we have here, and the mood of the people here generally reflects that,” she explained. “There’s nothing like the desert sunsets, the stars at night, or an early morning hike on Camelback or South Mountain. Being out in nature here is stress relief and pure joy.”
Looking forward to honoring @Jody_Jackson at the @az_nff event, Saturday March 8th. Distinguished Arizona, Excellence in Sports Media. @NFFNetwork pic.twitter.com/Tk50fcB7NO
— Brad Cesmat (@bradcesmat) February 26, 2025
Jackson, who also teaches at ASU’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication, keeps her industry advice simple and straight forward.
“Always be prepared,” she noted. “Outwork everyone, and above all, treat others well and with respect.”
What an honor, thank you @az_nff https://t.co/ODDs4dAr4f
— Jody Jackson (@Jody_Jackson) February 7, 2025
This award represents and validates the endless hours she’s spent mastering her craft.
“To be given this award means I’m doing something right,” said Jackson. “The National Football Foundation is such a wonderful and storied organization.
“It is validation for all the hard work and time I’ve put into my job, and it inspires me to continue to do my best each day.”
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Eric Sorenson
A Valley native, Eric has had a passion for the Arizona sports scene since an early age. He has covered some of the biggest events including Super Bowls, national championships and the NBA and MLB playoffs in his near 20 years in local media.