As the school year comes to an end, The Racquet Press looks to fresh faces to lead the publication into the future. As the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse’s only student newspaper, these three editors take on the task of ensuring the UWL student body remain informed and educated on important events and information impacting them and their community.
While the position of Executive Editor can be demanding at times, there is no one The Racquet Press would rather look to than Michael Herbers, current Multimedia Editor and former Arts & Entertainment Reporter, to take over the role. His passion for journalism and every single person in the UWL community will be invaluable during his time as Executive Editor.
“It’s more responsibility, but I view it as more connection,” Herbers said on the new position.
Herbers is stepping into the Executive Editor position with plans to make The Racquet Press bigger than ever, saying, “I think our physical newspaper is the coolest thing ever, and I want to have the Racquet in more physical spaces. I want it to be like you can’t go downtown or around campus without seeing us.”
Current General Assignment Reporter Sofie Hammen will be taking over the role of Managing Editor. Stepping up to an editor position is something Hammen is excited for and looking forward to, ready for every challenge and opportunity that comes with the role.
As a Communications major with a Media Studies emphasis, Hammen will undoubtedly excel in the role, bringing fresh ideas and perspective to the position that will help bring The Racquet Press to an entirely new audience by expanding The Racquet’s presence on social media.
“I’m excited to become a more well-rounded journalist, and I think that getting a glimpse into a different side of The Racquet will really help me do that,” said Hammen.
The role of Multimedia Editor will be filled by current Sports Photojournalist Ava Grant. During her time with The Racquet Press, Grant has shown a great aptitude for journalism and has grown immensely during her time as the Sports Photojournalist.
Grant, an Organization and Professional Communications major, is eager to begin her role as Multimedia Editor. “I hope people know and remember The Racquet as something that they can turn to if they need information, or if they want to submit and put something out… that it is somewhere that they can trust to be their news source,” Grant said on what she wants people to think about The Racquet Press during her time as an editor.
As the 2026-2027 school year approaches, these three editors will undoubtedly bring renewed energy, passion and focus to The Racquet Press and continue to provide impactful and reliable news to UWL and the greater La Crosse community.
