FNN News Network Names Erik Leibin Associate Sports Editor for FNN News Los Angeles
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN News) – FNN News Network has named sports reporter Erik Leibin as Associate Sports Editor for FNN News Los Angeles, effective immediately, announced FNN News Network President and CEO J Willie David, III. In this capacity, Leibin will oversee all sports newsgathering, assignments, and recruitment of sports writers and on-camera reporters.
In making the announcement, David said, “Leibin’s understanding of major league sports has made him an asset to our newsroom. We look forward to his continued contributions to the network.”
Leibin brings not only extensive sports media experience to the newsroom, but also a wealth of sports experience as a former professional soccer player. He grew up in Orlando, playing soccer at a young age in local Seminole Soccer Club. He was selected while still in high school as a “young Lion” to train with the professional Orlando Lions senior team. He played college soccer at American University, where he received his Bachelors degree in Visual Media in 1995.
Leibin played professionally for two Swedish clubs and two German clubs from 1992-1996. His foray into sports journalism began as a broadcast extern for Futbol de Primera covering the 2006 World Cup in Germany. He has since gone on to cover some of the biggest sporting events in world soccer including World Cups, European Championships, UEFA Championship League, DFB German & KNVB (Dutch) Cup Finals; and came full circle when hometown club Orlando Lions (rebranded Orlando City Soccer Club), now part of MLS, asked him to work as broadcast analyst. He has also worked as an NBC mic-op for the PGA Tour (2014-2018).
Leibin’s first assignment with FNN News Los Angeles: Super Bowl LVI Week, bouncing between media events at SoFi Stadium, the Los Angeles Convention Center, and the L.A. Rams’ Super Bowl training location in Thousand Oaks, California. He provide both written and on-camera analysis of the week and the big game.
“Erik’s passion and drive to find great sports stories proves he’s a great fit for the role. Plus, his years of experience in Los Angeles helps us navigate the market there,” said FNN News Managing Director Mellissa Thomas. “He’s resourceful and he’s genuine. I look forward to working with Erik in this new role.”