HOW TO BECOME A SPORTS BROADCASTER

WVU Online | Monday, December 30, 2024

Whether it’s declaring that last hitter “out” or detailing the quarterback’s every pass run, the job of a sports broadcaster is to be the voice of the game. If your passion for sports has you wishing for a career that rewards you for sharing your excitement and knowledge, this may be your dream job. In this article, we’ll cover what it takes to become a sports broadcaster, tips to help you get hired, and more.

First, let’s examine what a sports broadcaster actually does and what they’re paid. Review educational requirements (hint: It’s much more than memorizing a lineup), learn to make an effective demo reel that showcases your talent and experience, and discover how you can build your skills and network to help you land a job.

Start the game clock: Your guide to how to become a Sports Broadcaster begins now.

What Does A Sports Broadcaster Do?

He’s sliding into home, and the crowd goes wild…. A sports broadcaster covers gameplay and shares insights regarding players and the sport as a whole, serving as an expert voice to inform spectators and bring nuance to the event before, during, and after it transpires.

There’s much more to sports broadcasting than speaking, though. This vocation often involves scriptwriting, interviewing, research, production planning, and other skills. Depending on the situation, a broadcaster may perform these tasks while serving in one or more of the following roles:

• Play-by-play announcer: As that soccer player scores by beating three defenders, the play-by-play announcer chronicles it as it happens. This individual narrates key moments and player action.
• Color commentator/analyst: This team always plays zone defense–and the color commentator makes sure the audience knows it. Their job is in-depth game analysis, including communicating player performance and tactical information.
• Sideline reporter: How do you feel about your offensive line so far, coach? A sideline reporter interviews coaches and players (you’ll see them featured at halftime in football, for example). They keep track of injuries and updates and report their findings.
• Studio host: For game coverage before, during, and after the game, rely on a studio host to share insights, analyze the gameplay, and conduct interviews. A studio host must possess superb public speaking skills and be able to engage viewers.
• Producer: Each game is its own story, and the producer decides how viewers see it unfold. They oversee the technical aspects of a broadcast, focusing on proper timing and execution, and pivoting when something changes (e.g., the game goes into overtime or a delay occurs).
• Statistician: Where do you think the commentator in the booth found that statistic about the last time the team beat their rival? You can thank the statistician. This individual must be well-versed in statistical software and have a deep understanding of the game.

How much do sports broadcasters make?

Searching for game-winning compensation? Salaries in sports broadcasting vary, from the hosts of popular shows to the statisticians behind the scenes. Factors that influence earning potential include the type and level of sport, position/role, and broadcast experience.

On average, a sports broadcaster in the U.S. makes between $41,899 and $69,832. At the highest levels, they make millions of dollars each year. 
A snapshot of different levels of sports broadcasting pay:*

• Entry Level: Local sports reporters, sports journalists, and sports talk hosts (local stations) can expect to make $30–$40K annually.
• Mid-Level: Compensation for play-by-play announcers and sports reporters/hosts jumps to $45–$75K.
• Senior Level: These national-level broadcasters likely have 10+ years of experience, make $70–$150K+, and are often on-camera analysts and/or hosts for larger networks.
• National/Network Level: Land the title of national correspondent, network anchor, or executive producer, and you’ll bring home $100–$300K. Some of these individuals are former professional athletes who have first-hand knowledge of their sport–like former quarterback Tom Brady, who made the transition from the NFL to Fox’s game broadcast lineup in 2024.

No matter the level, demand continues to increase for sports broadcasters: Employment for sports broadcasting roles like news analysts, reporters, and journalists is projected to increase 6% from 2021 to 2031. Set yourself up for the best chance at employment by starting with a solid educational foundation.

^{* Salary and future demand data collected from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and industry sources like PayScale and Glassdoor.}

Educational Requirements for Becoming a Sports Broadcaster

Building Skills Through Experience

Create a Professional Demo REel