University alumna named ‘One to Watch’ at prestigious sports journalism awards

In an extraordinary 2022, Pien has commentated and reported on major sporting events such as the FIFA Men’s World Cup 2022, the UEFA Women’s European Football Championships 2022 for broadcasters such as Sky Sports, BBC Sport, BBC Radio 5 Live. 

The prestigious awards ceremony honors journalists every year for their work in sport reporting and commentating, in broadcast and print media. 

Fellow Salford graduate Sanny Rudravajhala took home the second spot in the category which exemplifies the outstanding talents that are being produced by the university in this field.  

Over the course of her career, Pien has worked for broadcasters like Sky Sports, BBC Sport, Radio 5Live and CBS as well as working for Dutch broadcasters Ziggo sports, offering commentary in both English and Dutch.  

Pien, 26, said: “I am really honored and proud to win the One to Watch - On Air award. I have been very lucky to be surrounded by brilliant and supportive colleagues who have helped kickstart my career in sports broadcasting.  

“I am so grateful to the BBC, Sky Sports and DAZN who have given me the opportunity to work on some incredible sporting events this year - including the Womens Euros and Men’s World Cup.”  

The judges agreed that the Piens’ work ethic, passion and knowledge of football all shone through in her broadcast output, remarking: “Pien is assured way beyond her years – she’s a real star of the future.”