Jocelyn Thomas describes herself as a woman of faith, a belief that has guided her from Montgomery, Alabama, to her current role as a Crewing Coordinator at ESPN. She attributes her success to forces beyond her own efforts.
Thomas grew up in a family affected by cancer. Her mother battled the disease for most of her life before passing away three years ago. Her maternal grandparents also died from it. These experiences led her to prioritize health and fitness. She exercises four times a week when not traveling and still plays tennis regularly.
From the Court to the Army
Sports provided an early outlet. Though shy as a child, basketball and tennis built her confidence. Her mother encouraged her to pursue any ambition, supporting a competitive spirit. When Thomas considered her future, the military offered a way to fund college, a common choice for many young adults at the time. The Army soon became more than just a financial solution.
She served for over 20 years, including deployments to Afghanistan, Kuwait, and Guantanamo Bay. Her four tours included commanding units of 100 to 250 soldiers twice. The relationships formed during service remain strong. Former colleagues, from superiors to subordinates, still reach out to her today.
A Leap into Sports Media
As her military service neared its end, Thomas faced an uncertain transition. Her initial plan involved opening a gym, using her experience as a trainer. A conversation with her battalion commander, Matthew Turcott, changed everything. When he asked what she would do if she could choose anything, she admitted her interest in sports. Turcott offered his full support, telling her he would sign whatever she needed to make it happen.
The discussion led her to Disney’s Wide World of Sports in Orlando, where she became the program’s first intern. With no existing structure, she and her mentor, Sean McNally, created one together. McNally, who also had a military background, connected her with key opportunities. One interview was with Rosalyn Durant, ESPN’s VP of Talent Acquisition. Thomas received three job offers and selected ESPN.
She has worked on college football, college basketball, and women’s professional soccer since joining. Her experience on Radio Row during Super Bowl week stands out as a career highlight.
Fitness remains central to her life, shaped by her experiences in and out of the military. Health and healing became essential parts of her routine for that reason.
