How to work in sports media: Scope, future and job roles

Do you want to express your passion for sports? The best way to channel your passion is through sports media, which is constantly changing thanks to recent technologies and the way sporting events have managed to capture popular imagination.

What is the scope of Sports Media

Sports media is a well-known specialisation in the sports industry. Jobs at larger media organisations like Start Sports, ESPN and Ten Sports are probably some of the most sought after in this field. However, whether it's with a professional or collegiate team, a regional newspaper or a media website, there are a plethora of other work prospects in this domain. Sports media is evolving rapidly — it has transformed significantly due to the digital revolution over the last decade.

How to get involved in Sports Media

The old method of sports coverage was entwined with journalism. Though it’s still relevant today, latest technologies have turned readers into viewers who would prefer to watch something. The internet has liberated media from the constraints of traditional media outlets. This freedom has ushered in a new era in media, particularly sports media.

You need not produce a degree in any specific areas to get into sports media. However, if you’re interested in becoming a sports journalist, a degree in Mass Communication and Journalism can help you.

Sports media vs sports journalism

There has been a clear distinction between sports media and sports journalism in the recent decade. Journalism as a whole has changed dramatically with the advent of the internet and social media, while the sports media industry has evolved in sync. Sports media is no longer limited to the back pages of newspapers and news bulletins — it now spans a variety of platforms. Gone are the days when only journalists and pundits dominated the sports media landscape as fans and ordinary people today can express themselves through new channels. In fact, they have become an essential part of the sports media landscape.

In today's world, sports media is no longer solely defined by sports journalism; it has evolved into a content-driven industry in which journalism continues to play an important role but is no longer the only player.

Types of jobs in Sports Media:

• Blogging: You can create your own sports blog from the comfort of your own home. By blogging about sports, you can learn and sharpen your writing skills. It can help you get a jump start in your job. Writing a successful blog can also become a career as you can earn handsome amounts by monetising your blog.

• Sports websites: There are various websites that publish content on sports. You can write for these websites or create multimedia content. You can also work as a freelancer or as a full-time employee of one of these websites.

• YouTube content creator: The rise of YouTube has changed entertainment as we know it, right from the music industry to sports. It has significantly changed the landscape of sports media with the rise of fan cams, explainer videos, case studies, news updates and others. You can create audio-visual sports content and share it on YouTube.

• Podcast: A podcast focuses solely on audio content. Podcasts have grown in popularity as anyone may start a podcast. Any topic relating to the sports you want to cover can be part of a sports podcast. You can also use podcasting as a starting point for sports commentary.

• Social media content creator: Apart from YouTube and podcasts, you can also create sports-related content on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

• Sports photography: If you are interested in sports and photography, you can start working as a sports photographer. You have to be present at various sporting events and click images of the action. You can work for news agencies, websites, sports teams or as a freelancer.

• Video producer: If you want to get into sports broadcasting, mainly TV, then your video-making skills can come in handy to work as a video producer.

• Social media manager: Almost every sporting and e-sports team has a social media presence. They need professionals to manage their social media appearance. If you’re well-versed in social media and are passionate about sports, it can be a good option.