Sports commentator jobs

Learn more about the qualifications needed to work as a sports commentator. In this section, you will find the educational requirements, the steps to follow toward a job, and any training that may be necessary for you to succeed.

What responsibilities do sports commentators have?

Commentators give a running analysis or analysis of a sports event for broadcasts on radio and television. They are tasked with breaking down what viewers are witnessing in terms of strategy while also describing the action in words that are understandable to the average person. Commentators who work in radio are required to provide listeners with vivid descriptions of the events being discussed so that the listener can image what is going on. On the other hand, television sports commentators are aware that the audience can see what is taking place, and as a result, they may concentrate more on analysis.

If You Want to Be a Sports Commentator, Do You Need a Degree?

The majority of entry-level positions in sports commentating require a bachelor's degree in a field such as communications, journalism, or broadcasting. However, some outlets may hire someone with a degree (for example, in English) who has some experience commentating and can demonstrate that they are qualified for the position. Aspiring broadcasters often attend college to hone their language skills, get familiar with the many pieces of equipment used in broadcasting, and learn how to do research on the subject matter they will be discussing.

Even if they have a degree, many aspiring sports announcers still need to get some experience before they can break into the industry. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a sports broadcaster, it is recommended that you begin your career with an internship, a job at a college radio station, or an entry-level position at a television or radio station that does not require speaking publicly.

Which Abilities Are Necessary for You?

The ability to talk to people easily is the first thing you need. It won't be long until a broadcaster is fired if they can't come up with anything to say or if they constantly use filler words like "uh" and "um." You will need to have the ability to put pen to paper. Even if giving presentations is part of your job description, you could be required to compose some of your own content (things like introductions, interview questions and pre-recorded segments). Last but not least, you'll need to have a deep understanding of the sport you cover. In order to effectively communicate these concepts to your audience, you will need to get familiar with player names and playing styles, as well as have an in-depth understanding of strategy.

What Kind of Salary Can You Expect to Receive Working as a Sports Commentator?

The website Payscale.com estimates that the annual income of a sports broadcaster in the year 2021 will be fifty thousand dollars on average. However, the amount of money one makes might vary substantially depending on their level of expertise and how well known they are. It has been estimated that prominent sports commentators such as Bob Costas, Jim Nantz, and Al Michaels earn upwards of several million dollars per year.

Is There Room for Growth in the Sports Commentating Industry?

The statistics for growth in the profession of sports commentating is, to say the least, scant since it is a restricted subject; nonetheless, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics gives some advice for professions that are connected to it. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the number of jobs available for journalists, news analysts, and reporters will increase by 6% between the years 2020 and 2030 as a direct result of falling income. This percentage stands at 10 percent for those who work in radio and television announcing throughout the same time period.