Working at the intersection of sport, culture, creators and community, the jury will spotlight ideas that move fast, feel authentic and deliver undeniable impact, says the NYFA.

As the Sports category group, reimagined in 2026, continues to evolve, it reflects a combination of storytelling, strategy and cultural influence, recognising work that not only engages audiences but shapes the way sport is experienced, consumed and connected globally.

This jury brings together a cross-section of leading innovators in sports marketing and creative content. Their collective perspective ensures that work honoured at the highest level reflects both creative excellence and meaningful cultural impact: ideas that perform, engage and matter, adds the NYFA.

"I'm energised by recognising work that moves culture forward, not just reflects it, understands intimacy at scale and puts athletes, teams and fan communities at the center, not as props," says Shannon Washington, CCO and Partner, 11Ounces. "Sports is having this moment because it's one of the last truly shared experiences we have. And the creative work that honours that authentically, that's what I'm here to recognise."

NYF introduces the 2026 Sports Executive Jury, a dynamic panel of creative leaders defining the future of sports storytelling, partnerships and brand experiences.

2026 Sports Executive Jury

The Jury Chair is announced as Shannon Washington, CCO and Partner, 11Ounces.

  • Dan Arango, Global Creative Director, Grey
  • Lindsei Barros, Group Creative Director, Translation
  • Sari Brecher, Brands in Culture, Diageo
  • Austin DeJong, Creative Director, FanDuel
  • Andre Gray, Chief Creative Officer, Havas
  • Surf Melendez, VP Content, Creative and Brand, Arizona Cardinals
  • Ryan O'Keefe, Group Creative Director, R/GA
  • Andrew Rhodes, Senior Vice President, DKC
  • Giancarlo Rodas, Executive Creative Director, BBDO New York
  • Maggie Walsh, Head of Strategy, GLOW

"This exceptional jury is deeply connected to the evolving world of sports marketing," says Scott Rose, President, New York Festivals. "Their combined expertise across storytelling, innovation and brand engagement will ensure that only the most impactful and creatively distinctive work rises to the top."

"Sports storytelling today moves at the speed of culture," says Donny Gherardi, Director, New York Festivals. "This jury brings a focused understanding of how creativity connects with fans in real time, across every platform."

For the 2026 season, New York Festivals continues to elevate its judging experience through an expanded in-person program developed in partnership with the 4A's, reinforcing its commitment to thoughtful, peer-driven judging. Specialty Executive Jury sessions will be held in May 2026, says the NYFA.

Trophy winners will then be selected by the 2026 Executive Jury. Executive Jury sessions will take place in early June at New York City's Crosby Hotel's state-of-the-art screening room. Specialty Executive Juries will judge their designated categories.

The deadline for entering the 2026 NYF Advertising Awards is Thursday, 23 April. To enter the 2026 NYF Advertising Awards or for more information on categories, rules and regulations, visit here. 

For more information, visit www.newyorkfestivals.com. You can also follow the NYF on Facebook, X, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor