University of Mississippi senior Griffen Hinkle has turned his interest in sports content creation into a full-time career, according to a May 7 announcement. Hinkle, an integrated marketing communications major from Fairfield, Illinois, recently accepted a role as videographer and content creator for NASCAR driver William Byron.
The story is part of the university’s 2026 Journey to Commencement series, which highlights students’ academic and personal journeys from college student to graduate. Hinkle’s journey began in high school with early experience in sports photography and videography. After earning an associate degree at Wabash Valley Community College, he decided to continue developing his skills at the University of Mississippi.
Hinkle quickly became involved with Ole Miss Sports Productions before even starting classes. During his internship there, he covered football, basketball, baseball and track events. “Griffen has an excellent work ethic,” said Micah Ginn, associate athletics director for Ole Miss athletics sports productions and creative services. “He rarely is sitting still, always moving toward the finish line in whatever assignment he’s been given.” Ginn also said: “He’s been a huge boost to our productivity without a doubt!”
Hinkle credits both classroom instruction and hands-on experience for helping him improve professionally. “I was able to learn about topics such as how to create a content calendar, keeping a consistent brand look and feel throughout content, and how to better set up for meetings,” he said.
A suggestion from his father led Hinkle to apply for internships in racing. He landed one with 23XI Racing—a team owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin—where he shot video at major events like the Brickyard 400 and collaborated on projects including promotional material tied to the Superman movie franchise. “Landing an internship with 23XI was a big door opener for me,” Hinkle said.
Ginn described him as “just a bright kid, highly motivated and very talented” adding: “Griffen is going to achieve whatever he sets out for; I am quite confident in that!” As Hinkle begins his new role on May 18 with Prosport Management supporting William Byron’s NASCAR team, these experiences mark what he describes as only the opening lap of what’s ahead.
