Every broadcaster knows that a great colour commentator can transform a game, but getting the most out of a reserved or shy commentator can be a tricky task. Whether it’s a former player still adjusting to life behind the mic or someone who’s just naturally reserved, coaxing energy and insightful commentary can feel like pulling…
As a sports broadcaster, you know that criticism comes with the territory. Whether it’s a fan on social media, a colleague offering feedback, or a family member pointing out things you could do better, it can feel like everyone’s got an opinion on how you should do your job. The key challenge is knowing when…
Catchphrases: they’re a staple in sports broadcasting. From “The big fella’s on fire!” to “Boom! Shakalaka!”, iconic phrases can become part of a broadcaster’s identity. But, as any experienced sportscaster knows, they can also backfire. When done right, a well-timed catchphrase can enhance your broadcast, helping you stand out in a crowded field. However, when…
Imagine calling a live basketball game from the comfort of your home or studio, miles away from the court. Sounds odd, right? Not anymore. Remote broadcasting, or calling games off a monitor, has become increasingly common in the world of sports media. In fact, it’s not just a trend—it’s here to stay. The COVID-19 pandemic…
Being a sportscaster and road trips go together like peanut butter and jelly (unpopular and unrelated opinion: I hate peanut butter and jelly). In fact travel is one of the most fun aspects of the business as you get to see new places, experience new arenas/stadiums and spend endless hours with coaches and players, building…
Recently I had the opportunity to speak to a high school class on the nature about sportscasting. The class was filled with grade 10 and 11 students who were being introduced to a variety of new and interesting careers. After I was invited, I actively wondered what an aspiring sportscaster would ask me. I remember…
We work in a business which relies on our skills to swifly describe what we see to those who aren’t in attendence, so it might feel counter-intuitive to read something to our audience. So I have to ask, is it okay to read a script to your audience? I say, at times, yes. I began…
It’s Halloween. A day to celebrate all things scary and spooky. When it comes to sports broadcasting, few things are truly ‘scary’. However there is always the risk of a serious injury or a major technical glitch that can turn a normal game into a broadcast horror story. I’ve been very fortunate in my career.…
Let’s start a debate about social media language. In the past, Sportscaster Life has covered the various aspects of social media. How to create cool GIF content, great social media management tools, and social media party fouls…among other things. For the most part, when it comes to content and conduct online, the general rule of…
I truly love sportscasting. The thrill of being live, the satisfaction of executing a great game broadcast and the joy of getting paid to watch and cover sports mean that there are few better jobs on the planet. However my favourite thing about sportscasting is the fact that there is no ‘one’ way to do…