How to become a sports commentator
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- volunteering
- applying directly
University
There is no set entry route to become a sports commentator but it can be useful to study for a degree in a related subject like:
- journalism
- sports journalism
- TV and radio production
- sports business and broadcasting
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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Apprenticeship
You may be able to apply for a place on an apprenticeship to get into this job, for example:
- Journalist Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship
- Senior Journalist Level 7 Apprenticeship - leading to a professional qualification
Entry requirements
Employers will set their own entry requirements.
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Work
You could start by working as a broadcast assistant in a television or radio company.
You'll need to work your way up from commentating at a local level and by applying for promotion as you get more experience.
You'll also need to show employers that you have the sports knowledge and commentating skills that they're looking for.
Volunteering
For most jobs, you'll need some practical experience and be able to show you have a real enthusiasm for sports commentating.
To get work experience you could:
- volunteer to commentate on charity events like fun runs
- commentate at matches or meets for local amateur sports clubs
- record commentary for websites or internet radio stations
- volunteer for community, hospital or student radio
You can get a list of radio stations from:
Look out for work experience placements, insight and talent days with broadcasters like:
- ITV
- Channel 4
- the BBC, including their New Voices scheme
The Sports Journalists' Association has more advice about where to look for work experience.
Direct Application
You can apply directly to employers if you've got some of the relevant skills and knowledge needed for this job. You'll usually need a background in sport or journalism.
If you're a current or ex-sports professional, you might start as a co-commentator or summariser, offering a specialist opinion, before progressing to lead commentator.
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Career tips
Competition for jobs is strong and very few jobs are advertised. Building up a network of industry contacts can help you find out about vacancies.
You'll need to record examples of your commentating to show your skills to potential employers.
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Sports Journalists' Association for training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Further information
You can find out more about careers in radio sports presenting from The Pips.