Sports Writing Basics and Tips

Process Overview

• Come up with article idea

• Get contacts for interviews - usually Mr. Chevalier, a coach, and a player

• Attend game/event and take pictures + notes

• Conduct interviews with permission to record

• Write article - use quote-transition format and proper AP style

• Attach photo or art

• Transfer to Ready for Section Editor column

• Make necessary edits when returned in a timely manner

• Transfer to Ready for EIC column

• Make necessary edits when returned in a timely manner

• Conduct author accuracy checks

• Transfer to Ms. McCranie if required, otherwise transfer to Ombudsman

Types of Sports Articles

• Games stories are simply news reports that recap who won and what the highlights are

• Feature stories can be broken down into two categories analysis stories and profiles

• Analysis story explains more in depth about the sport. Common examples include what a new stadium will cost, how steroids work or why a specific football team is going to the super bowl

• Profiles are stories that give readers background on an athlete, Examples can include a girl who has a dream of going to the olympics.

• A profile is supposed to take readers behind the scenes and provide details about a athlete on and off the field

• Season previews and reviews look either forwards or backwards at a team’s season.

• There is also simple news stories about topical things happening in the sports world.

What to look for at a game

• Take note of sensory details to use later for introduction

  • Is there a crowd?

  • Is there tension on the field?

  • Outcome of the game

• Ask player for interview right after game

• Highlights of the game 

• Name of teams involved 

• Location and date of game

Advice for Topics

• Writing about specific players statistics 

• Upcoming and noteworthy games 

• Big wins and big losses

• Incoming or resigning coaches

• Inspirational stories

• Stand-out athletes