SVG Students To Watch: Abby Finke, University of Dayton

Entering her senior year, this hometown girl is paving a career in live sports production gaining experience in replay and audio and as a TD

In the live-sports-video industry, the future is bright. Our series SVG Students To Watch highlights the next generation of live-sports-production professionals. Across campuses nationwide, students are playing a pivotal role in bringing their schools' games to fans - from running cameras and graphics to sitting in the producer's or director's chair and everything in between. This series shines a light on the young talent making an impact today and preparing to shape the future of sports-video production.

Abby Finke

College: University of Dayton

Academic Year: Rising Senior

Hometown: Dayton, OH

Roles: Replay Operator, Audio Engineer, Technical Director

What drew you to live sports production, and how did you get started?

I got started in live sports through my high school. I joined the Interactive Media program at my school's career technical center, and we were encouraged to work on football games for the local public broadcast station. I knew since my sophomore year that I wanted to pursue a career in media production, but I wasn't sure exactly which area until I started going to those games. It felt natural in a way - fun and rewarding, too.

In addition to work behind the scenes on University of Dayton broadcasts, Finke has gained experience in the director's chair, calling the shots on Ohio High School Athletic Association basketball games.Were there any aha moments when you realized you really loved a particular role, like directing, replay or graphics?

Throughout high school, I edited lots of videos for our morning announcements show. When I started doing replay at the University of Dayton, I realized it felt just like editing but very fast-paced.

What has been your favorite project or game that you've worked on, and why?

My favorite event that I've worked so far is the OHSAA basketball championships at UD Arena. The days are long, but you get to bond with other students and try new roles that you usually wouldn't get to do.

Finke has worked the First Four of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, which the University of Dayton hosts annually. Here she is with fellow students (from left) Jacob Hernandez, Collin Maclang, and Brycen Prock.What are your career aspirations after graduation?

After I graduate, I plan to continue working in sports broadcasting and be a director or replay operator. My dream is to lead a crew for an NBA broadcast.

What advice would you give to your freshman self?

I would tell my freshman self to keep being open to trying new things. So many opportunities have come my way because I've been willing to go outside my comfort zone.

If you run video production at a college athletic department and would like to recommend a standout student from your crew to be featured in SVG Students To Watch, please email SVG Director of Digital Brandon Costa at [email protected].

LINK:	https://www.sportsvideo.org/2026/07/02/svg-students-to-watch-abby-fink...
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