Leading sports broadcaster Laura Woods awarded honorary doctorate from Kingston University

Multi-award-winning sports broadcaster Laura Woods has been awarded an honorary doctorate from Kingston University for her outstanding contribution to journalism and promoting women in sport.

The 2008 BA (Hons) in Print Journalism graduate collected her award during the University’s winter graduation ceremonies in front students from the School of Arts and School of Creative and Cultural Industries and their guests.

Reacting to be made an Honorary Doctor of Art at Kingston University, she reflected on some of the amazing memories she made during her studies. “Receiving this award has made me more emotional than I can imagine. The encouragement I got from my lecturers prepared me for the career I have in the best possible way – I have so much to thank the University for,” she said.

After graduating from Kingston University, Laura set her sights on a career in journalism, starting as a production runner at Sky Sports before progressing through several roles before moving in front of the camera.

Her first presenting role was for Sky Sports’ YouTube channel covering the darts and then she reported on the NFL before becoming a household name in 2018 as a pitchside reporter on Sky Sports’ flagship Super Sunday programme. Laura has also covered Premier League football for Amazon Prime Sports.

In 2020, she was appointed anchor of TalkSPORT’s Breakfast Show, earning widespread acclaim. During her tenure, the show won an Audio & Radio Industry Award (ARIA) for Best Show, with Laura receiving two Sports Journalists’ Association awards for Best Presenter.

She also picked up the Best Presenter accolade at the Sports Broadcast Awards for her coverage of the 2022 Men’s World Cup and the 2023 Women’s European Championship when working for ITV, who she joined in 2021.

In 2023, Laura became the lead presenter for TNT Sports’ UEFA Champions League coverage, one of the most prestigious roles in global football broadcasting, as well as heading up the channel’s boxing coverage – further establishing her as one of the leading figures and a respected presence in British sports media.

Beyond broadcasting, Laura is a passionate advocate for equality in sport and the media. She appeared in a Docufilm Game On: The Unstoppable Rise of Women’s Sport and champions women’s rights and grassroots participation – crediting sport with giving her confidence, community and opportunity throughout her life and career.

Addressing Kingston University graduates after collecting her award, she told them the best way to success is authenticity. “Always work hard but always be authentic, you really are the only person that can do you and do it well. You have to get comfortable with being uncomfortable, it’s the only way you can grow, so trust in yourself and be bold, brave and unapologetic,” she said.

Head of the Department of Journalism, Publishing and Media at Kingston University Beth Brewster presented Laura with her award on stage and taught her during her studies almost 20 years ago. “I remember teaching Laura as a student full of energy, enthusiasm and real drive, and it’s been such a thrill to watch her career grow. Seeing her again now, and celebrating this truly well-deserved honour, makes me incredibly proud. She’s achieved so much and this recognition couldn’t be more fitting.”

• Find out more about studying journalism and media content and communications at Kingston University.