Sports journalism is competitive, but for those who love sports and storytelling, it can be a rewarding path. It combines writing skills with a deep understanding of different sports, teams, and the stories behind them. Getting started often takes time, effort, and the right approach.
What Sports Journalism Involves
Sports journalism focuses on reporting matches, interviewing players and coaches, and analysing current events in sport. Journalists write articles, shoot videos, record podcasts, and post on social media. They follow trends, attend live events, and bring sporting moments to wider audiences.
This field is no longer limited to newspapers or television. Online platforms, YouTube, podcasts, and blogs have changed the way stories are told. Journalists today need to be comfortable with digital tools and multimedia content.
Show Passion for Sport and Writing
A strong interest in both sport and writing is key. Those entering the field often start by following teams closely, watching matches, reading articles, and writing about what they see.
Writing regularly helps develop a personal voice. Match reports, opinion pieces, interviews, or articles on sports history can all become part of a portfolio. New writers can launch a personal blog or contribute to school or university publications.
To succeed in this field, grammar, storytelling, and attention to detail matter. It’s also important to know what makes each sport exciting and meaningful to others.
Build a Portfolio and Start Pitching
Editors want proof of ability. A good portfolio shows writing skills, unique ideas, and sports knowledge.
Useful portfolio items include:
- Match reports
- Profiles of players or coaches
- Opinion articles on sports trends
- Analysis pieces (e.g. team tactics, rule changes)
Writers can use platforms such as Medium or Substack to publish their work.
Once the portfolio is ready, the next step is pitching. Writers should study each publication, understand its style, and send tailored story ideas. A good pitch is short, clear, and focused on one strong idea.
Pitching tips:
| Step | Action |
| 1 | Know the publication’s audience |
| 2 | Suggest original and timely topics |
| 3 | Keep the pitch short and to the point |
| 4 | Be polite and professional |
| 5 | Follow up if needed, but don’t overdo it |
Rejection is normal, especially early on. It’s part of the process. Feedback, when available, helps improve future pitches.
Study and Learn Industry Skills
A degree is not required, but formal training can help. Many universities offer journalism courses, and some focus specifically on sport.
These programmes teach research, media law, ethics, interviewing, editing, and broadcasting. They often combine classroom learning with real-world assignments.
Short courses in digital journalism, SEO writing, or video editing are also useful. Many of these are available online through platforms such as:
- Coursera
- LinkedIn Learning
- edX
A background in journalism or English can support clear writing. Sports studies can improve industry knowledge.
Get Industry Experience
Real-world experience is often the best teacher. Internships and freelance work provide insight into how journalism works day to day.
Where to look for opportunities:
- Local or regional newspapers
- Sports blogs and websites
- Football clubs and sporting organisations
- Radio or TV stations
Writers should be ready to start small. Covering youth matches, writing unpaid articles, or managing a club’s blog can be the first step.
Every byline helps build trust with future employers.
Make Connections in the Sports World
Contacts can help with job leads, freelance work, or advice. Attending events or joining journalism groups can lead to valuable connections.
Social media is also useful. Platforms like LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter) allow writers to follow editors, journalists, and publications. Engaging professionally and sharing your work can increase visibility.
Good networking is based on mutual interest and support, not only asking for favours.
Find a Niche
Some journalists cover many sports, while others focus on one. Specialising can build authority and help attract regular readers.
Examples of niches:
- Women’s football
- Sports politics
- Youth development
- Esports and gaming
- Sports business and finance
Writers should choose a topic they care about and want to study in detail. A strong niche can set them apart in a crowded field.
Learn Digital Tools
Sports journalism today is closely linked to digital media. Journalists need more than writing skills; they must work across video, audio, and social media.
Important digital skills include:
| Skill | Benefit |
| SEO Writing | Helps articles rank on Google |
| Video Editing | Allows for interviews and reports |
| Podcast Production | Opens new channels of content |
| Social Media Posts | Grows audience and builds presence |
Running a podcast or YouTube channel gives writers more control over their content and helps build a personal brand.
Stay Strong and Keep Improving
The sports industry moves fast. Stories change quickly, and writers often work under pressure. Success comes from being flexible, open to learning, and ready to adapt.
Criticism and rejection are common. Writers who ask for feedback, read widely, and work on their skills are more likely to grow.
Being open to new platforms, new topics, or new formats helps stay relevant.
