Sports coverage is a broad genre of journalism that includes commentary on various sports events and the reporting of those results. Often, a sport’s story is told through the lens of how that particular event may have been affected by an aspect of the sport itself (such as team tactics) or by outside forces such as weather conditions. The goal is to bring a rich and comprehensive look at a sport and the events surrounding it that will make readers or viewers care about it.
To do this well, preparation is key. It’s also important for reporters to stay calm and focused, even in the heat of live coverage.
Some journalists specialize in specific aspects of the sports world, carving out niches as play-by-play announcers or social media commentators. Others find success in analyzing trends and developing digital content for online platforms. Live coverage is one of the most important aspects of modern sports journalism and offers a unique opportunity for journalists to develop their speed, adaptability, and communication skills.
To attract a wider audience, consider covering aspects of a sport that don’t require a lot of sports knowledge. For example, ask Americans to vote for the ugliest uniforms or the best/worst colors in their league. This is a fun way to appeal to those who may not be interested in the sport itself but love to express their opinions.