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Job Profile: Sports Writer



Job Profile: Sports Writer

A sports writer has the responsibility to both entertain and inform people about what is occurring within the world of sports. Some sports writers focus on one particular sport whereas others write on all sports within a given area. Some sports writers are syndicated or are published in more than one newspaper and others may write for a local newspaper or even for a website, blog, magazine or TV show.

Sports writers may work freelance and sell individual stories to various news outlets or they may work for a given publication. Those sports writers that do freelance work pick their sporting events to cover, whereas those that work for a publication are usually assigned stories. Both types of sports writers have to be able to capture the excitement and interest of the reader as well as provide an accurate depiction of the sporting event or issue that they are writing on.

A sports writer must be willing to work long hours and still make deadlines for printing. Most writers now use computer word processing programs that make editing and revising a bit easier, and also allows for submissions by email to meet tight deadlines. Creativity, a very complete understanding of the sport, good rapport with athletes, coaches and managers as well as an ability to write are all important for a sports writer. An interest in news as well as keeping up-to-date on all issues with regards to the sports community is also important on a daily basis.



Common work activities include:

* Attending games and sporting events, able to write accurately and effectively on the game events.

* Writing insightful, informative and original stories on various aspects of sports.

* Researching, networking and developing contacts in the sporting world.

* Meeting with publishers, editors and writing teams to develop and obtain assignments for possible stories.

* Keeping in contact with athletes, owners, coaches and managers and using high ethical standards.



Programs related to Sports Writer careers


BS in Interdisciplinary Studies from Ellis College of New York

The BS in Interdisciplinary Studies in Humanities provides students with a wider range of course options than the standard Bachelor of Science in Humanities. Interdisciplinary studies can include complimentary courses such as communication arts and graphics.

Bachelor of Arts from Thomas Edison State College

Individuals enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts degree program have the opportunity to develop a foundation of traditional liberal arts courses while gaining more specific knowledge in a particular area of interest.

BA in English from National University

A BA in English is a very versatile degree and will allow graduates to work in a myriad of fields from editing to teaching to business. Many students are able to complete the degree in about three years and will study topics related to communication.

Image Credits:

1. Robindbrown

2. Erik R. Bishoff

3. Looking4poetry

4. Looking4poetry


  1. lucyinthesky saidFri, 24 Oct 2008 00:36:52 -0000 ( Link )

    Whenever I thought about sports journalism I only thought of sports coverage like ESPN and leagues such as the NBA and NFL. But I realize now that there are tons of athletic events you can cover – everything from marathons to the Olympics to snowboarding! It seems like sports blogs are pretty popular nowadays as well.

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