Thunderbirds' Maki Jenner named Finalist for Tom Borrelli Award

May 6, 2026

HALIFAX, NS (May 6, 2026) -- The National Lacrosse League announced Wednesday that Halifax Thunderbirds' Communications Manager Maki Jenner has been named a finalist for the Tom Borrelli Award.

The award is presented annually to recognize league-wide media excellence. 

“Being named a finalist for the Tom Borrelli Media Person of the Year Award is incredibly humbling. I’m so grateful to the Halifax Thunderbirds and the NLL for trusting me with opportunities that pushed me into spaces I never imagined I could be in within the world of broadcasting,” said Jenner of the nomination. “It’s been a journey of growth, learning, and taking chances, and I’m thankful for every moment and every person who’s been part of it.”

Jenner has been a trailblazer in National Lacrosse League broadcasting since she joined the Thunderbirds in 2022. Last season, she became the first female colour commentator on a broadcast.

“Seeing Maki recognized as a finalist is something our entire organization is incredibly proud of. The passion, creativity, and professionalism Maki brings every single day have played a huge role in telling the story of our team and building the connection we have with our fans and community,” said Halifax Thunderbirds President and CEO John Catalano. “Beyond her outstanding work with the Thunderbirds, she has also continued to showcase her talent on the national stage, which speaks volumes about the respect she has earned across the industry. This recognition is incredibly well deserved, and we’re thrilled to see her hard work acknowledged at the league level.”

Earlier this season, Jenner made history again, becoming the first female play-by-play broadcaster in league history, calling the Thunderbirds' showdown with the Buffalo Bandits on Feb 14 alongside Pat Gregoire and Ashley Docking. 

This is Jenner’s second nomination for the Tom Borrelli Award. She was also a finalist for the honour in 2025.