How to Become a Professional Sports Writer?

Over the last ten years, we have seen a huge spike in the number of online sports writers. This is due to an increase in readily available information, which allows writers to pen previews, reviews and features from the comfort of their homes using laptops and mobile devices, including smartphones. 

There are three different types of online sports content writers. First, we have professionals who cover major events from the Super Bowl to the latest international sports news. These authors have their work published on the most popular websites and are paid handsomely for their efforts, allowing them to gain full-time employment from betting. 

Next, there are the part-time writers or hobbyists who write decent sports pieces that appear on mid-size websites, attracting a few hundred readers each week. In most cases, this work is of a decent standard but is done without pay or for a small compensation. 

Lastly, we have sports fans with strong opinions and a Wi-Fi connection. The quality is poor and attracts few writers with the work done for free or published on the writer’s blogs and social media fields.

Where do you fit into this content-producing pyramid? Are you an elite-level author looking to make a living from producing sports articles, or do you want to enhance your skills with the aim of boosting your wages with some extra cash made through a passion for writing and a love for professional sports?

In this article, we will explain easy-to-follow steps alongside some tips and tricks that will improve your chances of becoming a paid sports content writer.

These pointers will improve your chances of being a good sports writer and help distance you from the basement hacks who pack the third tier of sports writing and make it difficult for talented writers to stand out from the crowd.

Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Sports Writer

1. Hone Your Writing Skills

Good sports writers are, first and foremost, excellent communicators. Here’s how to sharpen your craft:

• Write regularly: Start a sports blog or contribute to local newspapers. Practice consistently to improve your voice and style.
• Read widely: Consume articles from top sports websites like ESPN, Bleacher Report, and The Athletic to see different writing styles.
• Take feedback seriously: Share your articles with friends, mentors, or writing groups to gain constructive criticism.

2. Deepen Your Sports Knowledge

Great sports writers understand their sport inside-out. How do you get there?

• Watch games actively: Take notes during games, spotting tactics, player decisions, and trends.
• Follow experts and analytics: Track insights from professional analysts, podcasts, and data-driven websites.
• Learn sports history: Understanding context and historical patterns adds depth to your stories.

3. Get Formal Training (Optional, but Valuable)

You don’t need a journalism degree to succeed, but formal education can accelerate your path:

• Degree programs: Journalism, Communications, or English majors often include sports journalism courses.
• Workshops and online courses: Platforms like Coursera and Skillshare offer specialized writing and journalism courses.
• Internships: Real-world experience, even unpaid, at newspapers or sports networks helps build your resume and connections.

4. Build Your Portfolio

This is your professional showcase:

• Start a sports blog: Write consistently, focusing on quality over quantity.
• Guest posts: Offer your writing to sports websites or blogs as a guest author.
• Medium and LinkedIn: Publish articles on platforms that help reach wider audiences and professionals.

5. Master the Art of Interviewing

Sports writers regularly interview athletes, coaches, and analysts. Here’s how to nail your interviews:

• Prepare thoroughly: Know your subject’s history, recent performances, and relevant statistics.
• Ask insightful questions: Aim to draw out thoughtful, detailed responses rather than generic quotes.
• Practice active listening: Follow up naturally based on their answers rather than strictly sticking to prepared questions.

6. Network and Build Relationships

Like any profession, connections matter:

• Attend sporting events: Introduce yourself to other journalists, commentators, and officials.
• Leverage social media: Engage professionally on platforms like X and LinkedIn, following influential sports writers and editors.
• Join sports writing associations: Groups like the Sports Writers Association provide valuable networking opportunities.

7. Get Your First Job or Freelance Gig

Landing your first job might take patience, but here’s how to get started:

• Pitch editors: Approach editors with well-developed story ideas relevant to their readership.
• Start small: Local newspapers or smaller sports websites often offer opportunities to new writers.
• Freelance platforms: Sites like Upwork or Freelancer.com can provide initial paid opportunities.

8. Stay Adaptable and Keep Learning

Sports media is rapidly changing:

• Learn multimedia skills: Understanding basic video editing, podcasting, or social media management makes you more versatile.
• Stay updated with trends: Follow industry shifts, whether it’s AI-driven analytics or emerging sports.
• Continuously refine your craft: Writing skills evolve; never stop improving and adapting your style.

Avoid Common Pitfalls

Here’s what trips up many aspiring sports writers:

• Bias and fandom: Enthusiasm is great; blind fan bias isn’t. Maintain professionalism.
• Overlooking fact-checking: Verify everything—your credibility is your career.
• Ignoring feedback: Constructive criticism is essential to your growth.

Summing It Up

Becoming a professional sports writer takes passion, persistence, and strategic effort. Start writing today, build genuine connections, and always keep learning. Your dream of covering the biggest games from press row could become your daily reality.