Writing about sports can seem daunting, especially if you’re not familiar with the subject matter. Many journalists, particularly students, often face this challenge when tasked with covering sports stories. Recently, I received an inquiry from a journalism instructor who is requiring her students to write at least two sports-related pieces this semester. Her aim is to ensure they grasp the fundamentals of sports writing, just as they would with crime, meeting, or issue stories. However, some students are understandably anxious about diving into this unfamiliar territory.

Embracing the Unknown

It’s important to recognize that feeling out of your depth is a common experience in journalism. Whether you’re covering city council meetings, economic issues, or educational standards, you likely don’t have expertise in every subject from the get-go. The key is to approach sports writing with the same mindset. Acknowledging that you’re starting from scratch can significantly alleviate your anxiety.

Research: Your Best Ally

The first step in writing about sports—or any topic, really—is thorough research. This process involves:

• Identifying the specific aspect of sports you need to cover.
• Conducting online searches to gather information.
• Reviewing previous articles to understand how others have approached the topic.
• Formulating relevant questions based on your newfound knowledge.

Don’t let the excitement and fervor surrounding sports intimidate you. Remember, it’s just another subject to explore. Equip yourself with the facts and insights that will help you feel grounded and prepared for your writing assignment.

Finding Points of Interest

If sports aren’t inherently appealing to you, look for angles that resonate with your interests. Here are some strategies:

• Profile an Athlete: Investigate what drives an athlete or coach. Exploring their dedication can make for a compelling narrative.
• Financial Aspects: Examine the economic implications of sports events, such as ticket sales, venue costs, or job creation around sporting events.
• Technological Innovations: Investigate advancements in sports equipment or medical procedures that enhance athlete performance.
• Historical Context: Research your local sports history or look into significant events and figures that have shaped your community’s athletic landscape.
• Psychological Insights: Delve into the mindset of athletes, especially during high-pressure situations or recovery phases.
• Unusual Sports: Explore less conventional sports or quirky aspects of athletic culture that may pique your interest.

Learn from Others

One of the best ways to grasp the nuances of sports writing is to shadow seasoned sports reporters. If you’re part of a college media outlet, reach out to those covering sports and express your interest in learning from them. This hands-on experience will allow you to observe how they research, conduct interviews, and craft their stories. Not only will you gain valuable insights into the craft, but you may also find aspects of sports journalism that you genuinely enjoy.

Whether you’re apprehensive about writing sports stories due to a lack of knowledge or interest, remember that every journalist starts somewhere. By embracing research, seeking out what intrigues you, and learning from experienced reporters, you can develop your skills and confidence in the field.