A Guide on How to Become a Sports Commentator

sports commentator

Sports commentators commentate on live sports and give analysis, or discuss topics linked to the sports stories. To get into this industry you will require a bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, or broadcasting. They might work in a studio where they have a report on the games, or work as a presenter and cover a specific game by doing a play-by-play analysis of the broadcasti.

They might work for radio, television, or online systems. Job prospects for this are good in radio and television. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that entry-level openings are usually available in small stations. Work may be demanding, with unpredictable schedules and locations being the standard for them. Sports commentators typically work in stadiums’ commentator boxes or studios.

Sports commentators may work on several sports or specialize in just a single one. They might cover different areas of analysis for sports. To become a Sports commentator, you’ll require more than a love of sports. You need special training and education.

How to become a Sports Commentators in Steps

Step 1: Research Sports Commentators Career Education and Duties

Sports commentators can be specialists in various areas on television and radio like sports reporter, talk show host, guest speakers, subject matter experts, analysts, or running commentators. Sports commentators should be well-informed about the terminology, rules and history connected with various sports and possess the ability to speak extemporary skill, as much of their work is done live.

This job demands long hours, often offering coverage before, for the duration of, and after a sporting event. They normally need to travel to the place where the sport is happening as well. In this highly competitive field, executives typically favor sports commentator candidates with a degree in journalism.

Step 2: Begin Your Education as a Sports Commentator in High School

Prospective sports broadcasters can develop speaking and writing skills by working with a school television station, newspaper, working at various shows or television to get used to the media presence, or radio stations and acquainting themselves with sports vocabulary.

They might practice by commentating at youth sporting occasions at school, community, or locality tournaments or championships. Courses in foreign languages, basic computer science, vernacular skills, and public speaking are important in this profession.

Step 3: Acquire a Bachelor’s Degree

Get a Bachelor degree in Journalism, Broadcasting, or Mass Communication preferably with a specialization in sports communication and journalism. In addition to developing reporting skills, sports commentator candidates study moral codes of conduct, sports entertainment, sports business and the responsibility of athletes. There are several universities and colleges that offer these courses or training certifications.

Internships

Because several employers want to hire Sports commentators having professional experience, having internship experience while getting your degree will be very useful for your career.

You can always intern with the local radio station or television to understand how they work, what are the requirements for a successful live event, its coverage, and the skills needed to speak. Broadcasters should also have intimate knowledge of the specific sports they want to cover. Getting relevant experience in the field you want to work in will prove invaluable to your career.

Commentator’s Duties.

  • Interview candidates to talk about the morale and strategies
  • Decide on a strategy for commentating, and get acquainted with fellow commentators
  • Understand the pitch, the field, and talk to the stadium managers to get an idea of what the viewers can expect
  • Work with sound engineers for broadcasting commentary, including handling the equipment
  • Conduct additional interviews if need be, of various other professionals such as coaches, team managers, or strategies and analysts
  • Have a commentary before the sport regarding the expectations and build the hype for the sport
  • Engage actively on social media for the sport.

Pay Scale and Career Growth

While information for sports broadcasters or journalists isn’t readily available because of its niche, the US BLS has provided some estimates about the profession.

Because of the uncertain trends in revenues, the BLS anticipates that employment for journalists, reporters, and broadcast news forecasters could reduce by 10% between 2017 and 2029. For television and radio announcers, that figure stands at -8% at the same period. However, an established sports commentator can earn up to $75,754 per year.

What Benefits Come Along With This Career?

Sports commentators work in a comfortable work environment and are paid well for their work. Further they have the benefit of indulging in creative work. Additionally, sports commentators also get the occasion to meet several new individuals and engage in networking.

Sports commentators even achieve celebrity status. They also have the advantage of getting entry into games, or have their names associated with a sport in the papers. Besides the salary, few companies also offer retirement packages and vacation time.

Conclusion

Career progression in this field might be limited because the workforce is small. Due to the advancement of the internet and particular sports websites giving running commentaries, the sports commentator career might not blossom well. However, you can start your practice now if you wish to become a sports commentator.