Dylan Ackermann
Dylan Ackermann(he/him/his)
Sports Reporter, Phoenix

Dylan Ackermann expects to graduate in December 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in sports journalism following his time at Beloit College, where he played Division III basketball. Ackermann intends to pursue his master’s in journalism. Ackermann has interned for The Abercrombie Agency, Back Sports Page and AZPreps365 in Phoenix.

Latest from Dylan Ackermann

Phoenix Rising FC’s Cinderella road story hits USL Championship Final

PHOENIX – Phoenix Rising FC's Cinderella road story continues with late-game heroics, securing a USL Championship berth Sunday against Charleston Battery. The stage is set for an epic clash between two unexpected, underdog conference winners.

Phoenix Rising FC is set to clash with Charleston Battery in the 2023 USL Championship Final after surviving late-game drama on the road this postseason. (Photo courtesy of Phoenix Rising FC)

‘We’re not going to be alone’: Phoenix Rising FC finds strength in strong Los Bandidos support

PHOENIX – A look inside Los Bandidos, the dedicated supporters group behind Phoenix Risin’s postseason run. Ever since 2017, their unwavering commitment has created a unique atmosphere, turning away games into home-like experiences for the club.

Los Bandidos “Capo” Tomas Rosales, facing away from the game as always, leads La Banda and other group members in songs and cheers. (Photo Courtesy of Phoenix Rising FC)

Phoenix Rising FC aims for Western Conference Final redemption, sets sights on ‘California Sweep’ against Sacramento Republic FC

PHOENIX – In a long-awaited return to the Western Conference Final, Phoenix Rising FC is determined to leave their misfortunes behind. This Saturday, the organization looks to pull off the “California sweep” against top-seeded Sacramento Republic FC on the road.

Phoenix Rising FC gears up for a California showdown Saturday against Sacramento Republic FC in the Western Conference Final. (Photo courtesy of Phoenix Rising FC)

Phoenix Rising seek another playoff win on the road, this time against Orange County SC

PHOENIX – In a high-stakes USL Western Conference semifinal matchup, Phoenix Rising FC squares off against Orange County SC with a ticket to the Western Conference finals at stake. Both teams have unique stories, with Rising emphasizing their relentless spirit and Orange County's resurgence under new leadership.

Phoenix Rising FC is prepared for a playoff clash with Orange County SC in the Western Conference semifinals as they embrace the must-win mentality of the postseason. (Photo courtesy of Phoenix Rising FC)

Phoenix Rising’s revenge tour begins Sunday on the road with playoff match against San Diego Loyal

PHOENIX – Phoenix Rising FC is gearing up for the 2023 USL Championship Playoffs, eager to capture their first title after missing the playoffs for the first time since joining the league. Coach Juan Guerra leads the team with a sense of responsibility and determination, as they seek to overcome past playoff shortcomings and make their fans proud.

Rising players celebrating on the field with each other.

Salpointe’s Taliyah Henderson deftly navigating whirlwind of college basketball recruiting process

TUCSON – Salpointe High School star Taliyah Henderson, ranked 33rd in ESPN's 2025 HoopGurlz Super 60, faces overwhelming college choices and expectations. Her approach to this journey as a top-ranked player offers valuable insights amidst the chaos.

Taliyah Henderson posing in an ASU jersey.

‘In my blood’: Culture is motivation behind Phoenix Rising’s players, coaches

PHOENIX – In professional sports, where the allure of fame, expectations and fortune can lead many athletes astray, soccer’s cultural traditions motivate Phoenix Rising FC’s players and coaches to keep striving for more than victories on the pitch.

Phoenix Rising player Jose Hernandez with the ball.

‘Weird’ or not, Phoenix Rising players rely on pregame routine, superstitions

PHOENIX – Whether it’s eating the same food before every match, or following a strict game-day routine, athletes like Phoenix Rising FC defender Eddie Munjoma benefit from a structured plan. Sports psychologists even believe that superstitions can play an important role in improving performance.

Players from the Phoenix Rising celebrating.

No sweat: Phoenix Rising tackle ‘massive challenge’ playing through excessive heat

PHOENIX – Amidst a record-breaking summer in Phoenix, the Phoenix Rising FC aims to preserve player safety and athletic performance as the team battles through the excessive heat.

Phoenix Rising FC's strategic scheduling of evening home games provides players like Darnell King with a cooler playing surface and better conditions on the pitch. (Photo courtesy of Phoenix Rising)