Lori Schmidt: From Soccer Goalie to Assistant Sports Editor at The Columbus Dispatch
Lori Schmidt, the Assistant Sports Editor at The Columbus Dispatch, has had a fascinating journey in the world of journalism. With a background that includes working for various media outlets such as “Buckeye Sports Bulletin,” “614 Magazine,” and 97.1 The Fan, Schmidt brings a wealth of experience to her role at the newspaper.
But what sets Schmidt apart is her unique approach to storytelling. She believes that everyone has a story to tell, and it’s her job to uncover those hidden gems. One of her favorite assignments is interviewing Ohio State football players, but with a twist – no football-related questions allowed. This has led to some truly remarkable tales, from players pursuing interests outside of the game, like film school and bakery ownership.
Schmidt’s love for sports dates back to her childhood, where she played soccer, softball, and basketball. She continued to pursue her passion for sports journalism at Ohio University, where she also played soccer as the “tallest 5-3 goalie in the Mid American Conference.” Her diverse background in sports and journalism has shaped her into the editor she is today.
As an editor, Schmidt enjoys the opportunity to work with The Dispatch’s talented sports writers and play a role in shaping the paper’s sports coverage. She credits her mentors, including former football coach Larry Larson and sports editor Brian White, for helping her along the way. And despite her busy schedule, Schmidt finds time to enjoy nature, visit the zoo, and indulge in her eclectic taste in music and movies.
With a love for both the city and the suburbs, Schmidt finds balance in her life by occasionally escaping central Ohio for a vacation. But no matter where she goes, she always comes back home, reaffirming her love for Columbus.
Lori Schmidt’s journey from a soccer goalie to Assistant Sports Editor is a testament to her passion for storytelling and dedication to her craft. With a unique perspective and a love for sports, Schmidt continues to make an impact in the world of journalism.