Tasked with covering one of the biggest clubs in the land, it’s time to get to know the young journalist behind Sydney FC this season: Jimmy Alexander.
Jimmy was a late call-up to the 2021/22 roster of interns at The Football Sack.
After initially missing out, he jumped at the opportunity to cover Sydney when it came up in late November.
“When I first applied, I was actually unsuccessful,” Jimmy said.
“Fortunately, the position with Sydney FC opened up later on so then I got my chance.”
Jimmy admits that initially missing out on a spot was disappointing.
“It was a little bit disheartening to be honest,” he said.
“But when the opportunity came up, I was just in shock.
I was thrilled.”
Jimmy has since grabbed his chance with both hands.
One of the busiest interns this season, the NSW-based writer has thrown himself into The Football Sack internship experience.
“It has been life changing,” he said.
“I just love the way we are taught and all the knowledge we are given.
“If not for this program, I do not know where I would be today.”
The opportunity to work as a sports journalist was a dream come true for Jimmy.
A long-term fan of the A-Leagues, having the opportunity to work in the industry is something he is still amazed he gets the opportunity to do.
“I knew I wanted to do sports journalism since I was about 11 years old, but it always seemed like a bit of a pipe-dream,” he said.
“The opportunity to work at The Football Sack made everything real for me. The things I had seen on TV were happening in front of my eyes.”
Whether it be attending matches, conducting interviews, or just being in a sports journalism environment, Jimmy has thrived on the opportunity he has been given.
Incredibly, Jimmy has already been able to secure paid work in the industry as a result of his experience with The Football Sack.
“Last week I got a job offer from SBS,” he said.
“The role is a casual cross-platform sports producer and editor.”
Jimmy credits his work at The Football Sack for landing him the opportunity.
“All the articles I have been able to write have given me an amazing portfolio of work to show potential employers,” he said.
Jimmy is a shining example of what can be achieved in a short time at The Football Sack.
He is grateful to those who support the organisation financially for enabling him to get his foot in the door.
“The donors make it all possible. If they did not exist, then neither would this program,” Jimmy said.
“Especially considering the impact of Covid, I am extremely grateful to have been given the opportunity to get my first taste of the industry.”
