Sports journalism is an increasingly popular occupation and here we will give you a brief guide to what you might expect in your future career.
Do you have the potential to be a sports journalist?
In the current media environment, your job will not just involve reporting on sporting events and explaining the outcome. You may think that being a fan qualifies you for the job, but the truth is far removed from that.
You will be required to produce human-interest stories and comment on the larger issues affecting the sport you are covering. Furthermore, in the modern world, you will have to develop serious online skills and be familiar with the instant access that social media platforms offer.
Inevitably, you will have to source a course which provides the academic units you will require. Begin by searching online for a sports journalism course at sites such as https://schoolofjournalism.co.uk/journalism-courses/sports/.
What will a good sports journalist bring to the game?
You will help fans engage with their favourite sport or team by offering strong insight into the events you cover. Fans love to see deep analysis of their sport or individuals, and sports journalists provide that link. You need to be able to provide a narrative which links performers and followers of the sport.
Research is also a skill which will help you progress. You may be able to uncover stories which go beyond the sport, engage with injustice and hold stakeholders to account. Sports journalists can also be investigative journalists.
Interviews with sportspeople can also help to humanise them for followers who often see them as superheroes and do not understand the emotional issues that may be affecting their performance.
What should be my first step?
In the UK, you can take advantage of the National Careers Service which can help you find ways into the career you wish to follow by helping you in exploring degrees and courses.
Remember that sports journalism can help inspire individuals who take part in the sports you are covering and those who read or listen to you.