College Sports Communicators

The bio files: Writing player bios & new hire releases that work | 2026 CSC U Summit

College Sports Communicators

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0:00 | 52:24

Session 4

They may not be the most glamorous assignments, but student-athlete bios and coaching staff releases are essential pieces of athletic communications. This session will cover best practices for writing and maintaining bios, crafting effective new hire announcements, and understanding when and why these materials matter for media, recruiting, and historical records. Learn ways to make the process more efficient while still producing accurate, useful content that serves your department and your audience.

Panel: 

  • Ken DeBolt (Moderator) – Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Director of Athletic Communications
  • Larry Happel – Central College (retired), Athletics Senior Editor
  • Conor McCorry – Pepperdine, Director of Athletic Communications
  • Vinny Lavalsiti – UCLA, Associate Director of Athletic Communications