PRO INSIGHTS
Master the Mic
FROM SIDELINES TO STUDIO
THE JOURNEY
You can’t expect to step into sports media and instantly land your dream job on the biggest stage. This field rewards people who are willing to grind when no one is watching—calling games for small schools, cutting their own highlights, sending emails that never get answered, and showing up prepared every single time. It takes hours of practice, late nights, and a lot of patience to build real skill and a real reputation. You also have to be okay with hearing “no” more than you hear “yes.” Rejection is part of the process, not a sign you should quit. Every rep, every audition, and every “no” is moving you closer to the “yes” you’ve been working for—if you stay ready, keep improving, and don’t walk away before your break comes.
ADVICE FROM THE FIELD
THE POWER OF NETWORKING
In the fast-paced world of sports media, who you know is often as important as what you know. Building a strong professional network is the catalyst that transforms talent into opportunity, providing aspiring broadcasters with the access needed to break into the industry and thrive.
UNLISTED OPPORTUNITIES
Many of the best roles in sports media are filled through referrals and word-of-mouth before they ever hit a public job board.
MENTORSHIP & GUIDANCE
Connecting with veterans provides invaluable insights into navigating broadcast politics, refining your demo reel, and technical prep.
COLLABORATIVE GROWTH
Your peers are the future executive producers and directors. Building those bonds early creates a network that grows with your career.
EXPERT PLAYBOOK
UNFILTERED AUTHENTICITY
The audience connects with humans, not robots. Allow your personality to shine through while maintaining technical precision in your delivery.
THE ART OF PREPARATION
For every minute of airtime, spend an hour researching. Knowledge is your strongest defense against live broadcast surprises.
TECHNICAL MASTERY
Understanding the multi-platform tools is no longer optional. Master the digital editing and streaming software to make yourself indispensable.
ADVICE FROM THE BOOTH
WORDS FROM THE BOOTH
Real talk for the next generation. Success in sports media isn't just about the highlight reel—it's about the work you do when the cameras are off.
On SkillsETs
"Make sure that you are practicing everything. For example, writing isn't always taught, so be good at that out of the gate. being versatile is your best asset"
ON LEARNING
“Remember that iron sharpens iron, so find someone who knows what they are talking about. Also remember to be humble AND hungry"
ON PERSISTENCE
"Work at it like the decision is up to you, but pray about it like the decision is up to God"
Featured Professionals
Curt Sandoval
ABC-7 SPORTS COMMENTATOR
Curt Sandoval is an Emmy Award–winning sports anchor for ABC7 Los Angeles, recognized for his dynamic reporting, major event coverage, and respected presence in Southern California sports journalism.
Pat Doney
NBC-5 Sports Anchor
Pat Doney is a veteran sports anchor at NBC 5 Dallas–Fort Worth, known for his in-depth coverage of local teams and award-winning reporting across North Texas sports.
Christine Brennan
USA Today Sports Columnist
Christine Brennan is an award-winning sports columnist for USA Today and a trailblazing journalist, known for her Olympic coverage, bestselling books, and being a leading voice for women in sports media.