ESPN Taylor Rooks’s Athletic Father Inspired Her But Pursued Journalism Like Her Mother!
James Sullivan
Published May 15, 2026
ESPN Taylor Rooks’s Athletic Father Inspired Her But Pursued Journalism Like Her Mother!
April 24, 2026
This article was last updated by Manoj Gadtaula on April 24, 2026
Taylor Rooks was born into a family of athletes, with her father being Thomas Rooks, a former running back at the University of Illinois.
ESPN Broadcaster Taylor Rooks was born to parents, Thomas Rooks, a former football player, and Stephanie Rooks, on May 22, 1992, in St. Louis, Missouri, United States.
Taylor’s father, Thomas Rooks, was a talented football player at the University of Illinois. He was a running back for the Fighting Illini from 1982 to 1985 and became one of the team’s top rushing leaders.
Thomas helped the Illini win the Big Ten Championship in 1983 and over his four-year college career, he played in three bowl games, including the prestigious Rose Bowl.
His football legacy inspired Taylor, who grew up hearing stories of his games and seeing his old jerseys. This connection to sports helped shape Taylor’s love for athletics, even though she chose journalism over playing.
While Thomas inspired Taylor athletically, Taylor’s mother, Stephanie Rooks, was the family’s academic and professional role model.
Taylor’s mother, , studied broadcast journalism at the University of Illinois, just like Taylor would later choose.
Taylor Rooks with her mother Stephanie Rooks (Image Source: )Stephanie’s career path took her to Gwinnett Technical College, where she served as Dean.
She loved watching news broadcasts, which sparked Taylor’s interest in journalism. Taylor has said her mom’s encouragement kept her motivated, especially in the harsh world of sports media.
Taylor Rooks Attributes Her Successful Career To Her Parents!
Broadcaster Taylor has often expressed gratitude for her parents’ sacrifices. In a 2026 interview with Essence, she spoke about how her mother pushed her to stay focused and work hard, even when things got tough.
She said:
My mom always had a way of keeping me grounded and making sure I knew what it took to succeed.
In a sentimental moment during a 2026 Bleacher Report interview, Taylor described how much her parents mean to her. She said:
Everything I’ve done is because of the sacrifices they made. They gave me the confidence to be myself and go after what I wanted.
Likewise, Thomas and Stephanie have also expressed how proud they are of Taylor’s achievements.
In a 2018 feature by Storied, Thomas shared his pride in watching Taylor grow into a respected journalist, saying:
She’s always been determined, and seeing her on TV, doing what she loves, makes us so proud.
Likewise, her mother Stephanie expressed her emotions in a 2026 Illini Alumni article, saying, “Taylor’s passion and hard work shine through in everything she does. We’re so proud of the woman she’s become.”
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Taylor Rooks’s uncle, Lou Brock, is a Baseball Hall of Famer.
- Before fully committing to journalism, Taylor briefly explored modeling.
- Check other Articles on
Aditi is an avid music lover whose interest's goes beyond the realm of music, with passion in digital marketing. A Gen Z who loves her personal space and is keen to exploring new things. An optimist who seeks silver lining in every circumstances life throws at her.
Related articles
May 15, 2026
May 15, 2026
May 14, 2026
May 14, 2026
Comments
LEAVE A REPLY
Comment: Please enter your comment! Name:* Please enter your name here Email:* You have entered an incorrect email address! Please enter your email address here
Δ
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam.
Share article
- May 15, 2026 Jerry Lee Singleton, a 1974 graduate of DeKalb High School, where he was a standout athlete, has passed away at 70. Singleton was born on...
- May 15, 2026 Residents living along Blackwell Road in Huthwaite are calling for urgent action after a group of children was repeatedly caught kicking front doors and...
- May 14, 2026 Howard Paul Sr., a graduate of Black River High School, tragically passed away. Paul was born on September 15, 1951, to his father, Arthur, and...
- May 14, 2026 A disturbing act of violence at Steven's Park in Allentown has left residents shaken and demanding answers after a witness took to social media...
- May 13, 2026 Residents of Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, are raising serious concerns after a series of violent incidents involving a group of young boys who have been targeting...
