Lahore joins global celebration on World Sports Journalists Day

 Lahore joins global celebration on World Sports Journalists Day

Asher Butt

Each year on July 2, the global sports media community comes together to celebrate World Sports Journalists Day—a moment to acknowledge the voices behind the headlines, the unsung storytellers who bring every goal, record, and victory to life.

In Lahore, this celebration took a heartfelt turn as members of the Sports Journalists Association of Lahore (SJAL) gathered at their SJAL Office, located inside the National Hockey Stadium, to mark the occasion.

The event saw an enthusiastic turnout, with both seasoned professionals and young reporters in attendance. Notable figures included SJAL Chairman Muhammad Yaqoob, President Aqeel Ahmed, Secretary Yousaf Anjum, and respected sports journalists like Aamir Raza Khan, Ashraf Chaudhry, Shahbaz Ali, Shahzad Malik, Rana Azhar Noor, Wasim Ahmed, and virtually Asher Butt and many more—all united by a shared passion for chronicling Pakistan’s rich sports heritage.

A symbolic cake-cutting ceremony capped off the gathering, turning what could’ve been a simple acknowledgment into a celebration of dedication, perseverance, and community.

More Than Just Reporters 

Behind every cricket score, hockey milestone, or grassroots tournament, there’s often a sports journalist working late hours, chasing quotes, verifying stats, and weaving stories that resonate. Their work builds legacies—not just for athletes, but for the fans who follow them.

While the on-field action earns the glory, it’s the pens, cameras, and recorders on the sidelines that carry those moments into history.

Why This Matters 

In today’s fast-paced digital era, sports journalism is evolving. From live updates on social media to in-depth analysis and multimedia storytelling, the role of a sports journalist has never been more dynamic—or more demanding.

Events like World Sports Journalists Day remind us that journalism isn’t just a profession—it’s a public service.

Here’s to the voices that amplify the games, the players, and the emotions that unite us all. And to every sports journalist working in stadiums, press boxes, or from a modest desk in a local newsroom—your words matter more than you know.