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ST. PAUL — Bemidji Pioneer Sports Editor Jared Rubado has been named by receiving the Kwame McDonald Media Award.

"Kwame McDonald was a civil rights activist and pioneer in covering womens sports," according to the NGWSD website. "This award is presented to members of the media or Minnesota media outlets that have consistently provided coverage that both promotes and supports girls and womens sports."

National Girls and Women in Sports Day is organized by the Minnesota Coalition of Women in Athletic Leadership, a volunteer group whose mission is to advocate for Title IX by celebrating and commemorating Minnesota individuals and organizations that inspire the participation of girls and women in sports.

Rubado was recognized for his award during the 2025 National Girls and Women in Sports Day-Minnesota ceremony held on Wednesday, Feb. 5, at the Minnesota History Center in St. Paul.

A livestream of the event is available for replay at Rubado's introduction and acceptance speech begins at the 58-minute mark.

Contributed

"A good sports story doesn’t just focus on points scored and final results," "The real story goes far beyond what happened on the court or the track, to who helped their team win and how they got there.

"Rubado puts the focus on the who and the why with each and every one of the individuals or teams he covers. He makes sure that the spotlight shines on all the right people and the right moments so that everyone understands just how important they are, especially when it comes to the growth of girls and womens sports."

Rubado graduated from Augustana University in December 2018 with degrees in journalism and sports management.

He has since worked in various sports reporting and editor roles at several Forum Communications newspapers, including the Brainerd Dispatch, the Alexandria Echo Press and Detroit Lakes Tribune before beginning his current role at the Pioneer in January 2023.

"Rubado uses the power of words to lift up the female coaches, athletes and administrators in his coverage area, and share their stories with the community around them," the nomination continues. "Thanks to his passion for sports equity and journalism, all athletes in Bemidji and beyond know that their story and accomplishments will be acknowledged and celebrated."