The Indiana State Sports Network has been named Production Unit of the Year by the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC), marking the first time that Indiana State University has received this honor. The award, presented during the MVC’s annual summer meeting, recognizes the work of the student-staffed sports broadcasting team, housed within Indiana State University’s Student Media department.
Led by Sports Video Manager Eric Mangum, the Indiana State Sports Network is comprised of students who take full control of live ESPN broadcasts throughout the academic year, gaining real-world production experience while delivering high-quality sports coverage to fans nationwide.
“This recognition is a testament to the dedication and creativity of our students,” said Mangum. “From pre-production planning to live execution, they work with incredible focus and professionalism. I’m proud to help guide them as they hone their skills and grow into the next generation of media professionals.”
During the 2024–25 academic year, Indiana State University students produced and distributed more than 60 live events to the ESPN app, including coverage of football, women’s soccer, volleyball, men’s and women’s basketball, softball, and baseball. Judges praised the network’s use of dynamic camera angles, polished graphics, and customized halftime programming, particularly for MVC basketball, noting that these enhancements helped elevate the quality of Indiana State University’s productions above the rest of the Conference.
After finishing as runner-up for the past two years, the network’s innovation was recognized with this year’s honor of the MVC’s top production award. In addition to Mangum, the MVC recognized Seth Montgomery, Senior Associate Director for Communications and Digital Content at Indiana State University Athletics, due to his contributions in the program’s success.
Dr. Melinda Roberts, Dean of Indiana State University College of Arts and Sciences, praised the honor. “This award reflects what we value most at Indiana State University - providing students with hands-on learning opportunities,” said Roberts. “Our Student Media department empowers students to produce professional broadcasts and build the confidence and leadership skills they need to thrive in the industry after graduation.”
The Indiana State Sports Network operates as a collaboration between Indiana State University’s Student Media Department and Sycamore Athletics. For more information about Indiana State Sports Network, visit isustudentmedia.com/issn.