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Advocate/Times-Picayune Sports Section Wins Six APSE Awards

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  Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, March 11th 2026 at 13:36 GMT by NOLA.com
      Locale: UNITED STATES

New Orleans, LA - March 11th, 2026 - The Advocate/Times-Picayune sports section continues its tradition of journalistic excellence, receiving six prestigious awards from the Associated Press Sports Editors (APSE) competition. The accolades, announced earlier today, highlight the team's commitment to in-depth, impactful, and comprehensive sports coverage of the vibrant New Orleans region. The awards span a broad range of categories, demonstrating the section's versatility and dedication to delivering quality content across multiple platforms.

This year's APSE contest saw submissions from news organizations globally, making the Advocate/Times-Picayune's success all the more remarkable. The awards are a testament not only to the talent of individual journalists but also to the collaborative spirit and unwavering commitment to local sports that defines the section.

The team secured first place in the highly competitive Breaking News category for its extensive coverage of the New Orleans Saints' COVID-19 outbreak in the 2024-2025 season. This coverage wasn't simply reporting positive tests; it delved into the logistical nightmares faced by the team, the impact on player health and performance, the evolving NFL protocols, and the wider implications for the New Orleans community. The reporting team worked tirelessly to provide accurate, timely information during a period of uncertainty and anxiety for fans and stakeholders alike. Sources indicate the reporting included interviews with players, coaches, medical personnel, and league officials, painting a complete picture of the challenges presented by the pandemic.

Beyond quick-turnaround news, the Advocate/Times-Picayune also demonstrated prowess in long-form storytelling. Doug Miller's feature, "The Journey Home," earned a well-deserved second place in the Feature Writing category. While details regarding the subject of the feature remain limited, the award suggests a compelling narrative, likely focusing on a local athlete's personal struggles, triumphs, or unique connection to the New Orleans area. Feature writing demands not only skillful prose but also deep reporting, empathy, and an ability to connect with readers on an emotional level.

Christian Gonzales was awarded third place in Beat Writing for his coverage of LSU football. Gonzales' consistently insightful reporting, breaking news, and player profiles have established him as a leading voice in Louisiana college football coverage. His ability to navigate the complex world of recruiting, coaching changes, and on-field performance has made him a go-to source for LSU fans and media outlets alike. Gonzales' dedication to providing accurate and nuanced analysis helps to contextualize the games and the people behind them.

The digital age demands more than just text, and the Advocate/Times-Picayune's commitment to Multimedia Storytelling was recognized with a third-place award for "A Quarterback's Redemption," a project focusing on Saints quarterback Taysom Hill. This project likely combined video, photography, interactive graphics, and in-depth reporting to tell a compelling story about Hill's career, his role within the Saints organization, and his personal journey. The success of this project highlights the section's ability to embrace new technologies and deliver engaging content across multiple platforms.

Recognizing the growing popularity of audio journalism, the team's podcast, "Locked On Saints," hosted by John DeShazier, Mike Triplette, and Greg Phillips, also secured a third-place honor. Podcasts allow for a different type of connection with fans, offering in-depth analysis, lively debate, and behind-the-scenes insights. The success of "Locked On Saints" demonstrates the Advocate/Times-Picayune's commitment to reaching audiences wherever they are.

Finally, the team's comprehensive coverage of the Saints' playoff run earned third place in the Special Section category. This coverage went beyond game recaps and included features on key players, analysis of opposing teams, and perspectives from fans, creating a holistic and immersive experience for readers.

"It's an honor to be recognized alongside the best sports journalists in the world," said Advocate/Times-Picayune Sports Editor Jeff Duncan. "This reflects the dedication and hard work of our entire team. We're committed to providing the New Orleans region with the most comprehensive and insightful sports coverage possible, and these awards are a testament to that commitment."

The Advocate/Times-Picayune's consistent success in the APSE contest solidifies its position as a leading voice in sports journalism, not just in New Orleans, but nationally. The team's dedication to quality reporting, compelling storytelling, and innovative multimedia projects ensures that the New Orleans sports community remains well-informed and engaged.