North Wales sports presenter Nicky John is a national treasure

The number of women TV sports presenters seemingly increases by the week – and it is great to see.

Some think being loud and brash boosts their style and makes them appear more dynamic, others impress with their knowledge and analysis, a few – like many male pundits – make no sense at all and another element can be composed, engaging, ultra-professional and carve their own niche.

Nicky John falls into the latter category. A leading anchor on S4C’s football programme Sgorio for a number of years, Nicky has become a national treasure.

Dame Vera Lynn became known as the “Forces’ Sweetheart” during World War Two for her morale boosting musical performances.

When it comes to TV presenting in Wales, Nicky is the nation’s sweetheart. – or Cariad Cymru.

Her cheery smiles light up our screens week in, week out, but this North Wales girl also possesses a fierce determination to be the best she can be.

She has worked extremely hard to reach the level she has; the in-depth nature of some of her interviews with many of world football’s most famous names over the years reflects just how diligently she has always worked, researching her subjects thoroughly.

Originally from Harlech, Nicky attended the town’s Ysgol Ardudwy. She caught the football bug early in life with her dad not only being involved with CPD Harlech, but also an ardent fan of Manchester United. Nicky regularly attended games at Old Trafford with her family.

Nicky originally joined Sgorio back in August 2006, so she has been part of Wales’ leading football show for 17 years.

Her duties on the programme have been varied, from working on the production behind the scenes, to travelling out to Spain or Germany to interview players and collect post-match interviews after La Liga matches, or sitting in a truck on a Saturday afternoon deciding which camera angles the crew should take the next replay from.

She was invited to try out for an on-screen role in around 2013.

Admitting she was surprised to be offered the opportunity at first, she decided to give it a go and has never looked back.

Nicky has always maintained she loves her job, particularly the element of going round chatting to different people involved with clubs.

In recent years, her adventures with the Wales national team, especially at Euro 2016, have brought her endless pleasure.

Nicky’s interviews on match-days have become something to savour. Often she will chat with up to 5, 10 people or more during a live broadcast, sometimes sitting in the stands and getting interesting people’s views on the match, as well as talking to the game’s major figures.

One of her most impressive recent outings was at the Wrexham v Connah’s Quay Nomads Genero Adran North game on March 26, watched at the Racecourse by a record crowd for a domestic league game in the Welsh football system of 9,511.

That day marked a major milestone for women’s football in Wales, and who better to present it and meet the people than Nicky John.

Although Wrexham’s Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney were there lapping up the atmosphere on the day, there was someone very special doing the interviews too.

Nicky has a relaxed, friendly interviewing style which makes her a standout in her field. And despite her high profile in Wales, she is totally down to earth – no delusions of grandeur with this lady.

She is also a major inspiration for aspiring female sports presenters of the future.

Life away from the screen has not been easy for Nicky in the past couple of years. Close friends, as well as her thousands of social media followers will know of the tough times, but through everything she has remained strong, ever-bubbly and professional.

And her groovy bobble hats should never be under-estimated!

Nicky, you are a national treasure and we are all with you and your family.

Thank you for all the entertainment you have brought us and no doubt will continue to give us in the future. ❤⚽️