Laura Rutledge: Laura Rutledge is a household name in the world of sports journalism and broadcasting. Her charming demeanor and impressive knowledge of sports have made her a beloved figure for sports enthusiasts across the United States. While many fans are familiar with her work on ESPN and the SEC Network, there are some lesser-known aspects of Laura Rutledge’s life and career that make her an even more intriguing personality. In this article, we will explore 32 untold facts about Laura Rutledge.
1. Early Beginnings:
Laura Rutledge was born on October 2, 1988, in St. Petersburg, Florida. Her birth name is Laura McKeeman.
2. Miss Florida USA:
Before pursuing a career in sports journalism, Rutledge was Miss Florida USA 2012.
3. Pageant Success:
She also participated in the Miss America pageant as Miss Florida in 2013.
4. Educational Background:
Laura Rutledge attended the University of Florida, where she earned a degree in broadcast journalism.
5. Marriage:
Laura is married to Joshua Rutledge, a former professional baseball player who played for the Boston Red Sox.
6. Proposal at Baseball Field:
Joshua Rutledge proposed to Laura at the University of Florida’s baseball field, where they first met.
7. Adorable Family:
The couple has two children together, a daughter and a son.
8. Connection to SEC Network:
Laura Rutledge’s career with the SEC Network began in 2014, and she has since become one of the network’s most recognizable faces.
9. Versatile Role:
Rutledge is known for her versatility, covering a wide range of sports including college football, basketball, and baseball.
10. Behind-the-Scenes:
Laura has worked as a reporter, host, and anchor, showcasing her skills both on and off the screen.
11. Influence of Her Father:
Her father, Robert McKeeman, is a longtime Tampa Bay Buccaneers season ticket holder and played a significant role in Laura’s love for sports.
12. MLB Reporting:
In addition to college sports, Rutledge has covered Major League Baseball for ESPN, gaining significant experience in the world of professional sports.
13. Family Business:
Her brother, Chris McKeeman, works in the sports industry as well, and the siblings share a deep passion for sports.
14. Host of “SEC Nation”:
Laura Rutledge has been the host of “SEC Nation,” a college football pregame show, which takes her to various SEC campuses every week during the season.
15. Compassionate Individual:
She is an advocate for several charitable organizations, such as the ‘V Foundation’ and the ‘Angels Reach Foundation.’
16. Recognition:
Rutledge received the National College Football Foundation’s Contribution to College Football Award in 2019.
17. Dog Lover:
Laura Rutledge is a devoted dog lover and often shares her adventures with her dogs on social media.
18. Secret Talent:
She has a hidden talent of impersonating mascots and has entertained audiences with her mascot impressions.
19. Best College Football Moments:
Rutledge has covered many memorable college football moments and has interviewed some of the biggest stars in the game.
20. Multilingual Skills:
She is fluent in Spanish, which has allowed her to connect with a wider audience.
21. Career Milestone:
Rutledge’s hosting of the 2021 NFL Draft marked a significant milestone in her career, showcasing her ability to cover professional football.
22. Fulfilled Childhood Dream:
Laura grew up as a passionate Gator fan, and covering the University of Florida athletics as a journalist allowed her to live out a childhood dream.
23. Faced Challenges:
Rutledge has been open about facing some adversity in her career but has always managed to overcome challenges.
24. Excellent Interviewer:
She is known for her empathetic and insightful interviewing skills, bringing out the best in her interview subjects.
25. Competitive Spirit:
Her background as a former pageant winner reflects her competitive spirit and drive for success.
26. ESPN Platforms:
Besides ESPN and the SEC Network, Laura has made appearances on various ESPN platforms, such as “SportsCenter” and “Get Up!”
27. Beloved by Colleagues:
Rutledge is well-respected by her colleagues, who often speak highly of her dedication and professionalism.
28. Active on Social Media:
She actively engages with her fans on social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram.
29. Work Ethic:
Laura Rutledge’s relentless work ethic and commitment to her craft have contributed to her success in a highly competitive industry.
30. Time Management:
Managing a career in sports journalism and being a mother of two is a testament to her exceptional time management skills.
31. Pursuit of Excellence:
Rutledge continually strives for excellence and never settles for mediocrity, setting a high standard for herself in everything she does.
32. Role Model:
Laura Rutledge serves as a role model for aspiring female sports journalists, proving that dedication, passion, and talent can break down barriers in a male-dominated field.
Laura Rutledge’s journey from pageant queen to one of the most prominent faces in sports journalism is nothing short of remarkable. Her relentless dedication to her craft, passion for sports, and compassionate nature have endeared her to fans and colleagues alike. As she continues to make her mark in the world of sports broadcasting, there’s no doubt that Laura Rutledge will continue to inspire and captivate audiences with her untold stories, both on and off the camera.
WRITTEN BY COLLINS