IFAF: Michael Preston receives prestigious Rob and Grace Zittlau Media Award from Football Alberta
International Federation of American Football Writer Michael Preston has received the annual Rob and Grace Zittlau Media Award from Football Alberta for his role at the 2024 IFAF U20 World Junior Championships in Edmonton last summer.
Michael took on the role of media coordinator for the event and managed the dissemination of information local media to key media outlets for the participating nations. During the competition, he worked tirelessly with volunteers arranging interviews, post-game and results distribution, and coordinated the press box and media credentialing.
“Michael’s kind but focused attitude made his participation on the organizing committee a pleasure,” said Football Alberta Marketing Director Jim Nahrebeski. “Michael’s participation with our committee was seamless and welcome. The event would not have been the success it was without him, and we are proud to recognize that with the Rob and Grace Zittlau Media Award.”
The award was created in 2020 to recognize people on the technical side of the sport and was presented by Jim Nahrebeski at a party Michael and his wife Jennifer hosted at their home in the New Orleans French Quarter for international media during Super Bowl week.
“This is a complete surprise, and I’m very honored,” said Michael. “I’ve spent almost thirty years promoting the sport of American football and working in media relations, which is really a labor of love. The event in Edmonton was very memorable and certainly among those I have truly enjoyed.”
Michael’s What Cheer Public Relations company has promoted multiple sports events around the world, and he worked his 22nd Super Bowl week of events in New Orleans, serving as the International Media Liaison for the Super Bowl LIX Host Committee.
