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Cobe Blackmond is a new Sports Production professional at the Chicago Sports Network.
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Just Hired: Cobe Blackmond

May 21, 2026

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Just Hired! Through the experiences of local, regional, national and international students, Western Illinois University has incredible alumni who are making an impact in the workforce. This series features students from around the world who are hired post-graduation.

MACOMB, IL – Meet Cobe Blackmond, a new Sports Production professional at the Chicago Sports Network, who secured the position after his experiences at Western Illinois University.

Blackmond will join the Chicago Sports Network, a sports production company responsible for producing pre- and post-game shows for major professional teams, including the Chicago Bulls, Chicago Blackhawks and Chicago White Sox. In his role, he will contribute to live and studio production efforts that support game-day coverage and fan engagement across multiple platforms.

He landed the position after applying during the semester and progressing through an approximately week-and-a-half interview process before being hired. The experience reflected a competitive but timely hiring process that led directly into his transition from student to industry professional.

Reflecting on his time at WIU, Blackmond emphasized the value of hands-on learning and professional preparation. He noted that his experiences helped him build confidence and develop his craft, highlighting how WIU fostered an environment that encouraged growth, practical experience and strong connections with faculty and peers. He also credited the program's supportive, family-like atmosphere and instructors who pushed him to continually improve.

Blackmond plans to stay involved with WIU by returning when possible and looking for ways to give back to the program in the future.

To share your hiring story with WIU, visit go.wiu.edu/4eVgEuw.

For more information on WIU's Sports Broadcasting program, visit wiu.edu/academics/majors/fine_arts_and_communication/broadcasting.php.

Posted By: Aaron Viner (AP-Viner@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing