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Sports writers report on sporting events, teams, and athletes for print and online publications. A high school diploma is required, and an undergraduate degree or higher is usually expected. Strong writing skills, a passion for sports, and networking abilities are important. Clips, workshops, and seminars help beginners hone their skills.
Sports writers are journalists who specialize in reporting on sporting events, teams, and athletes for print and online publications; some sports journalists also write books on sports matters. To become a sports writer, a high school diploma is required and an undergraduate degree or higher is usually expected. Many sports writers have degrees in sports journalism, journalism, English, communications, or other related fields. In addition to specific degree programs in sports journalism, some colleges and universities also offer regular journalism courses with sports writing tracks. Strong writing skills are required, including grammar, punctuation and sentence structure.
Some sports writers cover several different sports, while others focus on one area, such as golf, car racing, basketball or football. Like any writer who specializes in a subject, a person who wants to become a sports writer must have a strong understanding of the subject. Sports writers not only report on the results of games, races and other competitions, but they may also be called upon to analyze the results of games and sporting events and offer insight into the performance of individual athletes and teams.
Along with a solid education, it’s important to show potential employers that you’ve published sample writing when aspiring to become sports writers. For samples, or “clips” as they are called, budding sports writers often turn to their high school or college newspapers. They may also work as paid or unpaid interns in publications. Some writers voluntarily begin reporting for local newspapers that demand high volumes of coverage for high school and college competitions. Experience gained this way provides opportunities to obtain clips and make connections in the field.
Reading and studying articles and columns by professionals working in sports journalism is also important when becoming a sports writer. Attending writing classes, workshops, and seminars will help beginners hone their skills. Interacting with other writers will also provide networking opportunities.
In addition to having strong interviewing and reporting skills, sports writers must be deadline oriented. They must have a head for numbers to keep track of sports statistics and results. A flexible and enthusiastic personality is important when wanting to become a sports writer, because games can go overtime or get cancelled, and bad weather can make viewing uncomfortable. A passion for the sport is essential to understanding and connecting with fans. To build relationships with athletes, coaches, and other sports professionals, sports writers must be personable and have excellent communication skills.
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