How to become a sports announcer: A detailed guide on how to become a sports commentator

How to become a sports announcer: A detailed guide on how to become a sports commentator

Sospeter Itolondo
updated at April 12, 2023 at 8:24 PM

Sports commentators are some of the most famous names in the sporting world. They work to ensure they bring fans real-time commentary of an event. Some famous commentators are Peter Drury, Alan Smith, Jon Champion and Martin Tyler among others. Read on to learn how to become a sports announcer.

How to become a sports announcer
Martin Tyler speaks into a beIN Sports microphone before the Premier League match between Manchester City and Wolverhampton on January 14, 2019, in Manchester. Photo: Simon Stacpoole
Source: Getty Images

Sports announcers make the game spicier for the fans with their magical commentary and unique use of words. Some famous commentaries include Joaquim Maria Puyal’s ‘Ankara Messi’ as the little magician dribbled past half a team to score a goal and Peter Drury’s poetic announcement of Cristiano Ronaldo upon his second debut for Machester United. So, what does it take to be a sports announcer? Read on to find out.

How to become a sports announcer

This is one of the most important jobs in the sporting industry as it helps the fans get a picture of what is going on on the pitch. It also gives the watchers background noise which makes the game more interesting. So, here’s how to become a sports pa announcer:

1. Get a bachelor’s degree

A degree is an important part of how to be a sports announcer. The four-year degree comes with skills that are very important for the field such as diction, communication skills, operating the equipment, and proper research methods for efficiency.

Relevant degrees in the field such as Communications, journalism, broadcasting and similar fields. Other companies might accept an English degree. The most preferred one is broadcasting.

2. Hone your skills

The skills needed for the job include being able to write and think on the spot. Writing helps in preparing for the material to be used in the commentary. Finally, an announcer needs to have a deep knowledge of the sport they are involved in.

How to become a sports announcer on ESPN
Peter Drury answering a phone call. Photo: EMPICS
Source: Getty Images

An announcer needs to be articulate and fast thinking to avoid pauses and filler words in the commentary. Their wording should also be spot-on to last in the industry.

3. Find an internship

It may be as small as in college radio or a local sports team. An internship in a broadcasting station is better since it gives one the experience of working and operating in the environment. They also earn aspiring announcers credit which can come in handy when applying for jobs in top stations.

4. Create a portfolio

A portfolio is one of the best proofs of experience and skills. A portfolio may include short videos while in action, reels, audio recordings of your work and also publications of your work. They help an employer gauge the announcer and see where they could fit in their organisation and their skills.

How to become a sports announcer on ESPN

Becoming an announcer for ESPN may be challenging as it is one of the most competitive media companies in the world. First and most important, one will require a bachelor's degree. The degree is proof that one has gone through the necessary learning to handle the job.

How to become a sports announcer in Canada
Andy Gray, far-right, and British footballers as the Everton team record their 1985 FA Cup Final song 'Here We Go' in Studio B at Abbey Road in London on 18th April. Photo: Daily Express
Source: Getty Images

Experience in the industry may be in other broadcasting stations and Tv markets will give you an edge over other appliers. One may also be required to provide a highlight reel. This will prove that they have on-air experience which is an added advantage.

How to become a sports announcer in Canada

How hard is it to become a sports announcer in Canada? Broadcasters in Canada are expected to read sports news ad host programs relating to the game they represent. Prospective broadcasters are expected to have completed a college arts program on television and radio, completed internships in other broadcasting stations, demonstrate their knowledge and skills in an interview and have membership in a union.

How much does a sports announcer make?

So, what is the salary of a sports announcer? Most people in the field earn an average salary of $53418. Their salary ranges between $40000 and $66000 which is a good stipend. However, it should be noted that the salary may vary depending on the broadcaster’s experience and popularity. Some announcers have been able to make as much as $1 million a year in the field.

how to become a sports pa announcer
Alan Smith, ITV Presenter looks on prior to the FIFA World Cup 2022 Qatar qualifying match between England and Poland on March 31, 2021, at Wembley Stadium in London, England. Photo: Michael Regan
Source: Getty Images

The process on how to become a sports announcer is not that difficult given that a person is determined and puts in the work. For one to be a successful commentator, one needs a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as journalism, communication or broadcasting. A reel is also important as proof that they are skilled enough. One should also have a grasp of the sports they are interested in commentating on.

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Sospeter Itolondo
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