Being a sportscaster can feel like a dream job: calling exciting plays, bringing energy to fans, and making history with every broadcast. But what happens when you’re thrown into a niche sport that you’ve never watched or don’t fully understand? Whether you’re covering lesser-known sports like lacrosse, rugby, or curling, or getting your start in semi-professional leagues, calling the action when you’re not an expert can be a daunting task. But fear not — with the right approach, you can still provide an engaging and insightful broadcast that keeps your audience hooked.
The Struggle is Real
Imagine this: You’ve been assigned to call a rugby match, and you’ve barely seen a game before. The athletes are speeding down the field, throwing the ball in ways you don’t quite understand, and you’re trying to sound confident on air. But deep down, you’re thinking: “How do I keep this entertaining and informative when I have no idea what’s going on?”
It’s a relatable pain point many broadcasters face, especially when covering niche sports. The good news? You don’t need to be an expert to sound like one. All you need are the right tools, a bit of preparation, and the confidence to admit when you’re still learning.
1. Study the Fundamentals (Before the Mic)
It might sound like a no-brainer, but you need to spend some time getting familiar with the sport. Watch highlights, read rulebooks, and follow players or teams on social media. You don’t have to become an expert overnight, but knowing the basics — the key players, scoring system, and main strategies — will go a long way.
Here’s an example: Let’s say you’re covering curling. Even if you don’t know the difference between a “draw” and a “takeout,” you can still explain the purpose of each throw and how the game progresses. Understanding the rhythm and flow of the game will help you fill in the gaps and stay engaged with the audience.
2. Bring the Energy Like An Expert, Even When You’re Unsure
One of the most important qualities a sportscaster can have is energy. No matter how little of an expert you are on a sport, your excitement will shine through and engage viewers. Try to mirror the energy of the athletes. When a player makes a great pass or a team is on the verge of scoring, bring that enthusiasm to your commentary. This is true even for sports you may not fully understand. Your energy can be contagious.
Think of it this way: imagine a baseball game where the broadcaster has an enthusiastic voice even when calling a routine pitch. Their energy keeps fans involved, making every moment feel important.
3. Rely on Visual Cues
If you’re not an expert with the technical aspects of a sport, use what you can see. Watch the athletes’ body language. Pay attention to their reactions and movements. This can give you clues about what’s happening on the field. Are the players celebrating? Are they disappointed? Even if you’re unsure about the specific rules, you can describe the emotions and reactions, which often speak louder than the technicalities.
For example, in a rugby match, you might not understand why a certain penalty was called, but you can describe the frustration or jubilation of the players. This adds a layer of human connection to your commentary, even when the rules are a bit hazy.
4. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask An Expert
This one can be tricky for some broadcasters, but it’s an important point. If you don’t understand something, don’t hesitate to ask the experts around you. It could be a fellow commentator, a coach, or even the players themselves (if possible). This shows that you’re invested in providing accurate information, and it can also help you deliver better commentary on future broadcasts.
While the audience expects you to be knowledgeable, they also understand that niche sports aren’t as universally understood. If you’re upfront about your learning process, it can humanize your commentary, making it more relatable. Just make sure to integrate the feedback quickly — you don’t want to keep asking for help mid-broadcast.
5. Focus on the Stories
Every sport has stories. Even if you’re new to a sport, you can still focus on the human side — the personalities, the rivalries, the underdogs, and the comebacks. These are what captivate audiences, not just the play-by-play breakdown. If you’re calling a semi-professional volleyball game, highlight the player who’s overcoming an injury or the coach who’s leading a young team. This brings the narrative to life, and your commentary will sound more genuine.
For example, in a rugby match, you can tell the story of a player who switched from soccer to rugby late in their career, adding context to their incredible skills or the hurdles they overcame to get there.
6. Practice, Practice, Practice Until You’re An Expert
Of course, there’s no substitute for experience. The more you call these niche sports, the more comfortable you’ll become with the nuances of the game. You’ll start picking up the language, the key plays, and the rhythm. Until then, keep practicing in small ways. Try calling games at home or even on a video stream, practicing your commentary in a low-pressure setting before you hit the real broadcast.
Quick Tip: Watch a sport you know well and then try to call it in the style of a niche sport. For example, if you know basketball inside and out, try calling a lacrosse game with the same energy and excitement. This will help you develop transferable skills.
Reflection: Getting Comfortable in Unfamiliar Territory
No matter how much you research or practice, there will always be moments when you feel uncertain. But remember: it’s okay not to be an expert, as long as you’re honest and enthusiastic. Your audience wants to feel the action, the excitement, and the stories — not just a detailed analysis of the rules.
So, the next time you’re tasked with sportscasting a niche sport, take a deep breath. Get ready to learn, adapt, and bring your unique perspective to the game. Your authenticity and passion will resonate with listeners more than you think.
Key Takeaways:
- Study the basics of the sport, but don’t overthink it.
- Your energy can carry you through even the toughest moments.
- Focus on visual cues and human stories to make your commentary engaging.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and practice until you feel confident.