Jerry Emig is set to retire in March, concluding his 15th season as the sports information director for Ohio State football.
Jerry Emig’s announcement that he will retire in March, marking the end of his 15th season as the sports information director (SID) for Ohio State football, signifies the conclusion of an era defined by professionalism, dedication, and excellence in sports communications. Emig’s journey with the Buckeyes has been one of tireless service behind the scenes, where his efforts ensured that one of college football’s most storied programs remained at the forefront of media relations and public perception. As the university and its athletic community prepare for his departure, it is worth reflecting on the legacy Emig leaves behind, the critical role he played in shaping Ohio State’s media presence, and the impact his work had on coaches, players, and fans alike.
Emig’s tenure began at a time when college athletics was undergoing dramatic transformation, driven by the rapid rise of digital media, the expansion of television coverage, and the evolving expectations of fans who demanded instant access to information. Navigating this shifting landscape required vision and adaptability, qualities that Emig displayed consistently throughout his career. From coordinating media operations for nationally televised games to overseeing press conferences during pivotal moments for the program, Emig became a trusted steward of Ohio State’s football brand. His ability to balance the needs of coaches, players, and media members reflected a rare blend of diplomacy and strategic communication skill.
One of the hallmarks of Emig’s service was his commitment to integrity. In an era where sports information professionals must manage the fine line between transparency and protecting the interests of their teams, Emig set a standard for ethical communication. His colleagues frequently praised him for his honesty, reliability, and steady hand during both triumphant and challenging times for the Buckeyes. Whether Ohio State was celebrating a conference championship or addressing controversies off the field, Emig was often the voice guiding the narrative, ensuring that statements reflected the program’s values and upheld its reputation.
Beyond press releases and media briefings, Emig’s work was instrumental in fostering positive relationships with local and national journalists. His professionalism earned the respect of reporters covering the Buckeyes, who could rely on him for accurate information, timely updates, and fair access to players and coaches. This rapport helped ensure balanced and insightful coverage of Ohio State football, enhancing the program’s visibility while also strengthening trust between the university and the media. Emig understood that his role was not only to protect the team’s interests but also to serve as a conduit between the athletic department and the wider public.
Over the course of 15 seasons, Emig worked with multiple head coaches, athletic directors, and hundreds of student-athletes, each with their own communication needs and challenges. His ability to adapt to different leadership styles while maintaining consistency in Ohio State’s messaging speaks to his professionalism. From the high-profile national championship runs to the quieter rebuilding seasons, Emig’s steady presence offered continuity amid the natural ebb and flow of college football. Coaches valued his discretion and counsel, often leaning on his experience to navigate the intense media scrutiny that comes with leading one of the nation’s premier football programs.
Emig’s impact extended far beyond media relations. He played an essential role in mentoring young professionals in the field of sports information. Many of his former assistants and interns have gone on to leadership roles in athletics communication at other institutions, a testament to the supportive environment he fostered. Known for his patience and willingness to teach, Emig believed in developing the next generation of SIDs, sharing not only technical knowledge but also lessons in integrity, work ethic, and the importance of treating others with respect. His influence on the profession will be felt for years to come through those he mentored.
The rise of social media during Emig’s tenure added new complexities to the role of sports information director. Emig was at the forefront of integrating these platforms into Ohio State’s communication strategy, recognizing early on their potential to engage fans, promote student-athletes, and shape the public conversation around the program. He helped guide the university through the challenges and opportunities presented by Twitter, Instagram, and other platforms, ensuring that Ohio State’s messaging remained consistent, positive, and aligned with institutional values. His foresight helped position the Buckeyes as a leader in digital engagement within college athletics.
Emig’s retirement also invites reflection on the personal qualities that made him so effective in his role. Colleagues and media members alike describe him as calm under pressure, approachable, and deeply committed to the success of Ohio State athletics. His attention to detail, whether in preparing game notes, organizing media days, or coordinating logistics for major events, ensured that the Buckeyes were always represented in the best possible light. At the same time, his humility and team-first attitude meant that he rarely sought recognition for his work, preferring instead to let the success of the program speak for itself.
For fans, Emig’s contributions may have taken place largely out of sight, but they were nonetheless vital to the experience of following Ohio State football. Every feature story, press conference, media guide, and social media post reflected countless hours of behind-the-scenes effort from Emig and his team. His work helped fans connect with their favorite players and coaches, deepening the bond between the Buckeyes and the broader community. In this way, Emig’s legacy is woven into the very fabric of what it means to follow Ohio State football.
Looking ahead, Emig’s retirement presents Ohio State with the challenge of filling the shoes of a seasoned professional who embodied stability and excellence. His successor will inherit a program with high expectations for media relations and public engagement, as well as a tradition of integrity and professionalism that Emig helped to build. The foundation he leaves behind offers a strong platform for the next sports information director to build upon, continuing to evolve with the changing media landscape while honoring the values that have long defined Buckeye athletics.
As March approaches and Emig prepares to step away from his post, tributes are sure to flow from those who worked alongside him. Coaches, administrators, athletes, and journalists will undoubtedly express their appreciation for his contributions, celebrating not only his professional accomplishments but also the character he brought to his work every day. For Emig, retirement will mark the end of a remarkable chapter at Ohio State, but his influence will endure in the culture he helped create within the athletic department.
Ultimately, Jerry Emig’s 15 seasons as Ohio State’s sports information director represent more than a career—they represent a legacy of service, excellence, and dedication to the university and its football program. As the Buckeye community reflects on all he has done, there is little doubt that Emig’s name will be remembered among the many who have helped shape the proud tradition of Ohio State athletics. His work may have been largely behind the scenes, but its impact has been profound, touching everyone who loves and follows Buckeye football.
