Two sports journalists from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) have been recognised in the 2021 Australia Football Media Association Awards which recognise excellence in reporting on the Australian Football League (AFL).
Kate O’Halloran (pictured) was named best AFLWomen reporter overall across print, digital, radio and TV with the judges praising her “just brilliant journalism” saying there was “plenty of depth in the story-telling, but it was the emotion captured that set Kate’s work apart”.
Russell Jackson won best print/online feature reporting by an individual for his powerful feature on former St Kilda player, Rod ‘Rocket’ Owen, recounting the football star’s decades-long struggle with addiction.
Judges described Mr Jackson as “a brilliant wordsmith, handling the delicate subject matter with care and compassion”.
Mr Jackson also won for best opinion/analysis in print or digital for columns including his piece examining how the ‘Moneyball theory’ influenced how coaches approached the AFL draft.
The judges said: “Russell’s writing is unique and has a depth of research and detail that stands out.”
“He brought a different perspective to the Collingwood issues in 2021 and provided a fascinating examination of sport’s Moneyball theory.
“Each piece is beautifully written, captivating the reader from start to finish.”
The ABC’s Ben Cameron also received a commendable mention in the Clinton Grybas Emerging Talent Award.
ABC Sport commentator and Offsiders presenter, Kelli Underwood was inducted as a life member of the Australia Football Media Association.
