Letter from the editor: Just getting started

When we launched Cougar Sports in October, the goal was straightforward: to deliver timely and reliable sports coverage to the UH community while creating a platform where young journalists like myself could develop and uphold professional standards.

In just two months, what began as a passion project has grown into a consistent commitment to show up, ask questions and tell stories that go beyond the final score. This experience has only reinforced why sports journalism matters and why it’s worth doing the right way.

Covering sports goes beyond wins and losses. It’s about the “wisdom and learning” that comes from doing the job, a lesson coach Kelvin Sampson often emphasizes with his players. That principle guides our work as we learn through leadership, accountability and communication

I’m incredibly grateful for our team of writers and photographers who are committed to the craft. The late nights and endless rounds of edits and ideas do not go unnoticed. Their dedication is the foundation of everything we have built so far.

Launching the site during the heart of football season and just weeks before basketball season came with its share of challenges, but it also proved that there is real value in consistent, thoughtful reporting even from a new outlet.

That growth extended beyond the site itself. Reaching 1,000 TikTok followers before the new year underscored the importance of meeting audiences where they are while staying rooted in what matters most, keeping sports journalism alive.

As we enter the new year, our mission remains clear: to provide accurate reporting and compelling storytelling that highlights athletes beyond the game while expanding coverage and continually evolving how stories are shared.

We’re always looking for passionate, driven writers who care about telling stories. If you’re interested in joining the team and learning in a professional, collaborative environment, we would love to hear from you in 2026.

Being a sports journalist has opened incredible opportunities for me. In 2025, I experienced moments ranging from covering men’s basketball in the national championship to witnessing Houston football’s first bowl appearance since 2022. Along the way, I learned lessons in preparation, resilience and leadership that will guide me in the year ahead.

Most importantly, we would like to thank the readers and mentors who have engaged with our work by reading, sharing or offering feedback. Your support is what allows this project to continue growing.

The new year brings another opportunity to build, improve and earn trust. We’re just getting started.

Here’s to the season ahead.

-Camryn Alberigo, Editor in Chief