Esteemed sports broadcaster Laura Woods experienced a profoundly emotional homecoming this week as she returned to Kingston University to collect an honorary doctorate. The prestigious award recognises her outstanding contribution to journalism and her dedicated promotion of women within the sporting world.
A Full-Circle Moment at Winter Graduation
The 38-year-old presenter, who originally earned her bachelor's degree in Print Journalism from Kingston University back in 2008, was honoured during the institution's winter graduation ceremonies. She was supported by her fiancé, Adam Collard, and their baby son, Leo, as she accepted the award in front of students and distinguished guests from the School of Arts and the School of Creative and Cultural Industries.
An visibly moved Woods addressed the audience after receiving the honour. 'Receiving this award has made me more emotional than I can imagine,' she confessed. 'The encouragement I got from my lecturers prepared me for the career I have in the best possible way – I have so much to thank the University for.'
From Production Runner to Household Name
After graduating nearly two decades ago, the Dagenham-born journalist began her professional journey as a production runner at Sky Sports. Her transition in front of the camera saw her make her presenting debut on Sky Sports' YouTube channel, initially covering darts. She later reported on the NFL before achieving widespread recognition in 2018 as a pitchside reporter on Sky Sports' flagship Super Sunday programme.
Her career trajectory has been consistently upward. Woods has covered Premier League football for Amazon Prime Video and presented the highly popular talkSPORT Breakfast Show, earning multiple accolades including two Sports Journalists’ Association awards for Best Presenter.
A Champion On and Off Screen
Beyond her broadcasting achievements, Woods is a passionate and vocal advocate for equality in both sport and media. She has contributed to the documentary Game On: The Unstoppable Rise of Women’s Sport and actively champions grassroots participation. Her recent professional milestones include covering major tournaments for ITV, such as the 2022 Men’s World Cup and the 2023 Women’s European Championship, before being appointed as TNT Sports' lead presenter for UEFA Champions League coverage in 2023, alongside heading the broadcaster's boxing output.
Offering sage advice to the graduating class, Woods emphasised authenticity and resilience. 'Always work hard but always be authentic, you really are the only person that can do you and do it well,' she advised. 'You have to get comfortable with being uncomfortable, it’s the only way you can grow, so trust in yourself and be bold, brave and unapologetic.'
Pride from a Former Lecturer
The award was presented by Beth Brewster, Head of the Department of Journalism, Publishing and Media, who had the privilege of teaching Woods during her student years. 'I remember teaching Laura as a student full of energy, enthusiasm and real drive, and it’s been such a thrill to watch her career grow,' Brewster remarked. 'Seeing her again now, and celebrating this truly well-deserved honour, makes me incredibly proud. She’s achieved so much and this recognition couldn’t be more fitting.'
On a personal note, Woods and former Love Island contestant Adam Collard announced their engagement in September 2024, having begun their relationship the previous year. The couple welcomed their son, Leo, in January of the preceding year, adding a joyful family dimension to this celebratory professional milestone.
