Published: December 10, 2006 12:19 am      

Edwards joins sports department at The Star

Jeff Edwards has been named assistant sports editor of The Meridian Star.

The son of Blake and Vickey Edwards of Florence, Ala., he is a 2001 graduate of Bradshaw High School in Florence and a 2005 graduate of Mississippi State University where he majored in communications with an emphasis in journalism.

“It has always been my goal to write sports for a daily newspaper. For me to reach that goal at such a young age is a great honor,” Edwards said. “I want to thank The Meridian Star for having the confidence that I will add value to their sports section. I have always been impressed with the athletic talent in The Star’s coverage area and I am looking forward to getting out in the community and getting to know the coaches and players as I strive to make the sports section the best it can be.”

Edwards, 23, has worked as sports editor/news writer for The Neshoba Democrat in Philadelphia since August of 2005.

“Jeff is an award-winning writer who is already familiar with many of our area schools,” said Rocky Higginbotham, sports editor of The Meridian Star. “His enthusiasm and wide-ranging knowledge of sports makes him a natural for this position, and I’m certain his hard work will make a difference for our sports section.”

Fredie Carmichael, editor of The Meridian Star, said: “We are pleased to announce the addition of Jeff to this critical position of our sports department. He has the energy and talent to help us improve our sports coverage in all areas. His can-do attitude and dedication to the job will serve our readers well.”

Edwards is married to the former Jennifer Sheffield of Tupelo. The couple has a 2-year-old daughter named Payton and they are expecting another daughter, which will be named Hannah, who is due Dec. 29.