Sports Reporter, Ocala FL

Gannett; Ocala (FL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Gannett is searching for a versatile reporter for The Ocala Star Banner to cover the high school sports scene in Ocala, Florida. The role involves creating compelling stories and visual content, engaging the community through various platforms.

Ideal candidates will have a background in journalism, possibly with sports reporting experience, and proficiency in social media. A strong commitment to storytelling and community engagement is essential.

Qualifications

• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Previous reporting experience preferred, particularly in sports.
• Strong writing, spelling, and grammar skills with familiarity in AP style.

Responsibilities

• Create engaging storytelling across various platforms.
• Become the leading voice in high school sports for the community.
• Promote personal and institutional brand through content.

Skills

Storytelling

Social media proficiency

Communication skills

Multitasking

Headline writing

Education

Bachelor's or master's degree in communications, journalism or related field

Tools

Mobile device for shooting and editing

Social media platforms

Job description

The Ocala Star Banner, part of the USA TODAY Network, is seeking a versatile and curious reporter to join our sports team and create stories and visual content that captures the high school sports scene in and around Ocala, Florida.

While the biggest games remain important, the Ocala area is growing and has a diverse sports interest. A new high school is opening in the fall of 2026, the city holds one of Florida's biggest holiday high school basketball tournaments and, with a Summer Olympics two years away, an interest in equestrian sports will return for our readers and beyond.

Breaking news, well-sourced enterprise, updates on teams and athletes - you'll have to do it all in words, and in visuals that fit your eye on social media.

In the heart of Central Florida, Ocala offers a blend of small-town charm and growing economic opportunity. Known as the "Horse Capital of the World," Ocala is home to a large equestrian scene and combines a relaxed, affordable lifestyle with convenient access to Orlando and Tampa; both are about 90 minutes away. Located at the center of the state, Ocala is also only a two‑hour drive from either coastline.

Responsibilities

• Create storytelling that accurately informs, entertains and engages specific audiences and platforms through the use of metrics.
• Work toward becoming the community's leading voice of expertise in high school sports.
• Connect with the community through storytelling and outreach (social media, on camera, forums, community leadership, etc.). Provide thoughtful analysis of complex issues.
• Work with editor and content strategist to evaluate what's working and what's not and develop ongoing plans to satisfy audience needs.
• Collaborate to provide appropriate elements for stories (i.e. photos, videos and graphics). Capture basic photos and video as needed.
• Promote personal brand, the brands of colleagues and the institutional brand.
• Provide great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.

Requirements

• Valid driver's license, reliable transportation and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.
• Bachelor's or master's degree in communications, journalism or related field preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Previous reporting experience preferred; even better if you've covered sports.
• Proficiency on social media platforms; including but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Reddit.
• Experience shooting and editing photos and video on a mobile device.
• Strong communication skills, news judgement and headline‑writing ability.
• AI and automation literacy and experience, and willingness to use it to enhance their journalism.
• Ability to multitask and excel under intense deadline pressure.
• Ability to work collaboratively and efficiently.
• Strong writing, spelling and grammar skills; familiarity with AP style.
• Ability to work some nights and weekends.
• Comfort building a beat and communicating with athletes and coaches.