UW-Stevens Point senior frames a future in sports media through hands-on experience

When spring 2026 graduate Lyric LaRock arrived at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, she knew she wanted to pursue a career in sports media. What she didn't realize was just how quickly hands-on experiences at UW-Stevens Point would help turn that interest into a strong foundation for her professional career.

LaRock, a professional communications and media studies double major and Laona, Wis., native, found her passion in an internship in summer 2025, working as a sports reporter intern with WJFW NewsWatch 12 in Rhinelander, Wis. From local high school athletics to professional organizations, the role immersed her in the day-to-day world of sports broadcasting.

"My responsibilities included covering all things Wisconsin sports news," said LaRock, "I created and edited videos for sports stories, wrote scripts, filmed highlights for sporting events, conducted interviews and reported the sports block live on TV."

In addition to another internship with the Wausau Woodchucks Northwoods League baseball team as a game day experience/social media intern, LaRock credits her professors, coursework and work experience at the student-run Pointer Studios in helping her prepare for her internship at WJFW. Her work for Pointer Studios helped her gain experience in setting up shows, operating a video camera and learning software used in video production.

"My favorite experience with NewsWatch 12 was the opportunity to cover the first day of the Green Bay Packers training camp," said LaRock "I sat in on filmed press conferences with the GM and head coach, filmed practice and conducted player interviews with Jordan Love, Matthew Golden, Josh Jacobs and Mecole Hardman."

She has continued to build her portfolio through freelance sports photography and working as a UWSP Athletics action photographer. Her role involved capturing action shots, key game moments, celebrations and the overall energy of each event. Following the events, she also had to organize and deliver photos quickly to be used for social media, press releases and other athletics content.

"All of my professors have had large impacts on how engaged I am in classes and taught me valuable lessons that I have carried into both my professional career and my personal life," said LaRock.

A number of her professors praised her independence and competence when it came to her work in the classroom. LaRock consistently showed up with a smile and accepted the challenges and assignments put before her. "She was completely invested in her success and has a diverse portfolio to show for it," said Professor Alex Ingersoll, media studies.

These experiences have reinforced in LaRock how important it is to take advantage of opportunities and stay involved throughout college. Looking back on her time at UW-Stevens Point, she encourages current and incoming students to push themselves beyond their comfort zones early.

"My internships showed me how important it is to build relationships and learn from the people around you," said LaRock. "Working alongside professionals, asking questions and getting feedback helped me grow both personally and professionally.

LaRock says she is excited for what comes next and hopes to continue pursuing opportunities in sports media wherever her career path may lead.