In a historic announcement, the Pro Football Writers of America has awarded the San Francisco 49ers public relations staff with the 2024 Pete Rozelle Award. This award, which recognizes excellence in working with the media, is given to NFL teams that demonstrate professionalism and dedication to providing access to beat writers throughout the season. The 49ers are the first team to receive this award in its 35-year history.
The Pete Rozelle Award is named after Pete Rozelle, who served as NFL commissioner from 1960 to 1989 and began his career in sports PR. Throughout the 2023 season, the 49ers’ football communications team included several talented professionals, including Corry Rush as vice president of football communications, Peter Volmut as director of football communications, Kristin Wojcik as manager of football communications, Zackary Teats as coordinator of football communications, Caleigh Elkin as a football communications seasonal intern, Ellie Caple as director of communications and public affairs, Josh Stephens as senior manager of communications and public affairs, and Jacob Fill as senior coordinator of corporate communications.
One aspect that set the 49ers apart from other finalists was their commitment to providing access to beat writers throughout the season. They worked tirelessly to facilitate communication between players, coaches, General Manager John Lynch, front office personnel and media members. This dedication paid off when they were awarded the prestigious Pete Rozelle Award for their outstanding performance in working with the media during the 2023 season.
