Ashley Holder: Rising Star in Sports Journalism at Cleveland 19 News
Ashley Holder is a talented and dynamic sports anchor and reporter, currently making waves at Cleveland 19 News (WOIO). With an extensive background in sports reporting, she has become a recognised figure in American sports journalism, known for her engaging storytelling, on-the-field reporting, and ability to connect with audiences across multiple platforms. Her career trajectory reflects dedication, versatility, and an unwavering commitment to excellence in the field of sports media.
Early Life and Education
Ashley Holder’s passion for journalism and media began during her academic years at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where she pursued a degree in Journalism & Electronic Media under the umbrella of Communication and Media Studies. Her time at the university allowed her to develop a strong foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of media, including broadcast journalism, digital media production, and effective communication strategies.
During her studies, Ashley actively participated in university media programmes, honing her skills in reporting, editing, and producing content. She demonstrated early on a natural aptitude for engaging storytelling and a deep understanding of the dynamics of sports reporting. This educational background set the stage for a career that would combine both professional excellence and public engagement.
Career Beginnings: WCCB Charlotte
Ashley Holder began her professional journey in broadcasting as a Sports Anchor/Reporter at WCCB, Charlotte’s CW, from April 2017 to May 2018. At WCCB, she quickly made a name for herself through her ability to communicate complex sporting events in a clear and engaging manner. Her role involved creating content that informed and entertained the audience, while also making regular public appearances as an engaging speaker.
Her responsibilities included creative storytelling using video and written content, overseeing the management and guest bookings for the Sunday Night “Got Game” sports show, and collaborating with her team to produce accurate and timely sports reports. This period of her career helped Ashley cultivate the skills that would define her reporting style: accuracy, creativity, and a strong connection with viewers.
Transition to Charlotte Hornets Reporting
Following her initial success, Ashley expanded her experience as a Charlotte Hornets Reporter for Charlotte Vibe between September 2018 and July 2020. In this role, she was responsible for writing, reporting, editing, and producing daily content focused on the professional basketball team. Her work involved analysing games, interviewing players and coaches, and providing insights that resonated with both casual fans and dedicated followers of the team.
Ashley’s tenure covering the Charlotte Hornets allowed her to deepen her understanding of professional sports, develop her analytical skills, and strengthen her presence as a credible sports journalist. It also provided a platform for her to showcase her adaptability and versatility, handling both live reporting and in-depth feature pieces.
Freelance Reporting: CBS Sports and HBCU GO
Ashley Holder’s career took a significant step forward when she began freelance reporting for CBS Sports Network from October 2019 to July 2020. As a sideline reporter, she delivered live updates, conducted interviews with athletes and coaches, and offered insightful commentary on collegiate and professional sports events. This role highlighted her ability to perform under pressure and to communicate effectively in fast-paced, high-stakes environments.
In parallel, Ashley contributed as a SWAC Football and Basketball Sideline Reporter for Entertainment Studios’ HBCU GO between September 2022 and August 2023. Here, she focused on providing comprehensive coverage of collegiate sports, contributing to pre-season packages, and implementing community engagement initiatives. She also strategically built her personal brand on social media, creating story ideas and driving audience growth, demonstrating her understanding of modern media trends and digital engagement strategies.
Major Career Milestone: WGRZ Buffalo
Ashley’s professional portfolio further expanded with her role as Sports Anchor/Reporter at WGRZ Buffalo, a position she held from July 2020 to August 2023. In Buffalo, she was entrusted with covering high-profile teams such as the Buffalo Bills (NFL) and Buffalo Sabres (NHL). She provided live reports from the field, attended practices, and contributed in-depth analyses for the station’s weekend sports coverage.
Her responsibilities at WGRZ went beyond reporting. She managed a weekend sports team, delegated story assignments, and ensured the production of high-quality content. Ashley’s leadership skills and meticulous attention to detail allowed her to thrive under tight deadlines and during high-pressure breaking news situations. She also built strong relationships with community members and sports management, enabling her to generate exclusive stories that highlighted important community issues.
Current Role: Cleveland 19 News (WOIO)
In August 2023, Ashley Holder took on her current role as Sports Anchor/Reporter at Cleveland 19 News (WOIO). Here, she continues to deliver compelling sports coverage to the Cleveland community, reporting on professional, collegiate, and local sports events. Her role involves producing on-air reports, creating digital content, and connecting with viewers through multiple platforms.
Ashley’s reporting style is characterised by thorough research, effective communication, and the ability to present complex sports narratives in an accessible and engaging way. She brings her wealth of experience from previous positions to deliver content that resonates with a broad audience.
Skills and Expertise
Ashley Holder’s skill set is both diverse and specialised, encompassing:
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Sports Reporting: Expertise in covering professional and collegiate sports, including live sideline reporting, analysis, and feature storytelling.
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Content Production: Proficiency in writing, editing, and producing digital and broadcast content.
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Community Engagement: Active involvement in social initiatives, public appearances, and interactive media campaigns.
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Social Media Strategy: Building personal brand and audience engagement through strategic content planning.
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Leadership and Management: Overseeing teams, delegating assignments, and ensuring the timely production of high-quality reports.
Her combination of on-air charisma, journalistic integrity, and strategic media management makes her a standout professional in sports broadcasting.
Personal Life
Ashley Holder balances her demanding career with family life. She is a proud mother of twin daughters, born in 2021, and has spoken about the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. She also shares glimpses of her personal life through her social media platforms, connecting with fans and followers while maintaining professionalism.
Social Media Presence
Ashley actively engages with her audience on multiple platforms under the handle @AshNoelleTv. She uses social media to share insights into her work, personal updates, and community involvement, reflecting her modern approach to journalism where digital presence is as important as traditional reporting.
Achievements and Recognition
Throughout her career, Ashley Holder has been recognised for her:
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Ability to provide in-depth, accurate sports coverage that informs and entertains.
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Innovative use of social media to expand audience reach and engagement.
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Leadership skills in managing teams and handling high-pressure reporting situations.
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Contribution to community initiatives through public engagement and sports programming.
Her achievements highlight a journalist who is not only skilled on-air but also adept at leveraging modern media tools to connect with her audience effectively.
Conclusion
Ashley Holder’s journey from a journalism student at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, to a leading sports anchor at Cleveland 19 News demonstrates a combination of talent, dedication, and versatility. Her experience across multiple media platforms, coupled with her ability to engage audiences and manage complex reporting tasks, positions her as a rising star in American sports journalism.
With a growing presence both on-air and digitally, Ashley Holder continues to inspire aspiring journalists and sports enthusiasts alike. Her story exemplifies the impact of perseverance, professional growth, and strategic media engagement in building a successful career in modern sports journalism.
Ashley Holder is a name to watch, representing a new generation of sports reporters who are dynamic, informed, and deeply connected to their communities.
