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Sports Broadcaster: How to Become a Sports Broadcaster

Published Aug 11, 2009

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A Sports Broadcaster comments on sporting events on television, radio or through other broadcasting media. An aspiring Sports Broadcaster should have good communication skills and a thorough understanding of the sport he or she wishes to cover. Sports broadcasting is very competitive, and a person wishing to get a start in sports broadcasting should have a college degree in journalism to be successful.

Sports Broadcaster Career Summary

Sports Broadcasters are typically placed in one of two categories. A Sports Broadcaster may present play-by-play narrative of a game in progress. A Sports Broadcaster may also give color commentary on the event, giving background information on athletes, rules and analysis of the game, according to Answers.com. A color commentator generally gains experience in the sporting event as either a player or coach. John Madden is a famous color commentator. A play-by-play Sports Broadcaster is usually a professional broadcast journalist. Bob Murphy is a famous Hall of Fame Sports Broadcaster. Many Sports Broadcasters work on a variety of sports.

Education Required to Become A Sports Broadcaster

The Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov, reports that entry-level positions in broadcasting often require a college degree and some experience in sports broadcasting. A person interested in becoming a Sports Broadcaster should pursue a degree in communications, journalism or mass communications. People pursuing a degree in sports broadcasting often get a start in college radio and television stations. Internships can provide valuable experience. Some community colleges offer 2-year programs in broadcasting. Broadcast trade schools have programs that last six months to a year, and teach television announcing and related subjects, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Becoming a Sports Broadcaster

Employers seek applicants who have both broadcasting experience and postsecondary education. Higher education alone will not ensure a position in sports broadcasting. An aspiring Sports Broadcaster should cultivate relationships with people in every area of the industry, if possible. Competition for the few available positions in sports broadcasting is extremely high. This makes networking a must in order to succeed. Internships are a valuable asset, because an internship exposes the aspiring Sports Broadcaster to people in the industry. Working as a freelancer or stringer also helps gain exposure and gives aspiring Sports Broadcasters opportunities to showcase their skills and personalities.

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