CANTON, Ga. — The College Sports Communicators announced its 30 Under 30 Class of 2025 on December 8, 2025, recognizing 30 of the nation’s top collegiate athletics communications professionals under the age of 30, with the Southern Athletic Association Assistant Commissioner, Paige Ward, announced among the ranks.

CSC 30 Under 30 Release

The 30 Under 30 distinction celebrates emerging leaders in college athletics communications across creative, digital, and strategic media roles. collegesportscommunicators.com

“We are incredibly proud to see Paige honored among the top young communicators in college sports,” said SAA Commissioner Stacey LaDew. “Her passion, creativity, and tireless dedication to enhancing our athletic communications are exactly the kind of work this award was created to acknowledge. Paige’s selection reflects both her individual achievements and the strength of our entire athletics communications conference team.”

Ward joined the SAA in the Fall of 2025 as the Assistant Commissioner, overseeing all aspects of the conference’s athletic communication efforts. In her time with the league, she has increased the conference’s social media engagement and presence, enhanced the visual identity of the SAA, promoted the conference’s student-athletes and high-performing teams, and worked with all the administrators, coaches, and support staff to facilitate championship experiences. She also oversees the SAA awards and all-conference programs.  Her innovative approach to communications has significantly elevated how we tell our student-athletes’ stories and connect with fans, alumni, and media partners.

Ward’s recognition by CSC underscores the impact one individual can have across an entire conference. “I'm deeply honored to be recognized as a 30 Under 30 honoree,” said Ward. “To be counted among so many incredible names in athletic communications—and to see even more rising stars in the field—is truly humbling. I feel blessed to be part of this community, surrounded by mentors who have guided me, colleagues who inspire me, and the amazing student-athletes I've had the privilege to cover.

The SAA congratulates Paige Ward on this prestigious honor and extends their gratitude for everything she continues to do for the conference. She will be honored at the 2026 CSC Convention in Las Vegas next summer.
 
For more information on all things SAA, visit the websites of any of the participating schools, or go to the SAA's home on the internet at www.saa-sports.com. Be sure to stay up to date on all of your Southern Athletic Association news by following @SAA_Sports on Twitter (X) and @SAA_Sports on Instagram.