How to Become a Sports Analyst

You've seen them, the people trading insight and opinions during half-time and before and after sporting events. These people are sports analysts, journalists with special knowledge of a specific sport who demonstrate their expertise by providing opinions along with facts for the audience. Persistence and a love of sports are required to become a sports analyst. Steps 1. Pick your sport. Sports reporters and analysts often specialize in a sport. o It's no coincidence that some sports analysts are former athletes who played the sport they're analyzing. 2. Practice your writing and verbal communications skills. o Sports analysts may have to think on their feet and be prepared for anything. o Speak clearly. Speech classes or clubs can be beneficial for reporters aspiring to be broadcast sports commentators. o Be proficient with spelling, grammar, pronunciation and composition rules. 3. Get a degree in journalism or mass communications. o While not all sports analysts have journalism degrees, it does help prepare you and provide you with credentials for employers. o If you pursue a journalism degree, try for an internship as a sports reporter. 4. Gain experience. o Work for community newspapers, radio or television. o Get to know the sports editors. o Move up when the opportunity presents itself. 5. Listen to what others say. o The successful sports analyst gains a reputation for being a good listener. o When this happens, people want to come to him or her with breaking news. 6. Analyze relevant information from different sources. o A sports analyst must be a good researcher. o Information must be obtained from reliable sources. o Interpret information you have gathered for viewers, listeners or readers. 7. Display comfort in working with the public. o Radio and Television journalism requires, not only working in front of an audience, but communicating with various people. 8. Stay up-to-date with facts, figures and important issues in sports. 9. Learn to use the equipment and processes common in your media. o Writers should be proficient with computers and word processing programs. o Broadcast sports commentators should be familiar with media production and telecommunication. 10. Persist in your goals. o Being a sports analyst requires determination and a thick skin. Tips: • Although sports analysts are more visible in broadcasting, they are also working in print journalism. Warnings: • Work hours will vary and may be long due to sporting events, seasons and deadlines. originated by: WRM, Carolyn Barratt Source: www.wikihow.com