How to Write a Good Sports Story

With the accessibility of 24-hour sports channels and websites dedicated to every type of sport, there are more sports writing opportunities available than ever before. Whether you are trying to land a job as a staff sports writer or looking for some freelance sports writing gigs, getting a foot in the door will not benefit you if you are unable to write a good story. While rules of most types of writing apply, sports writing also has its own unique considerations.

Things You'll Need

• Pen and notepad
• Recording device
• Thesaurus

Instructions

1. Be prepared at all times. Make sure you carry a pen and paper, tape recording device or both with you at all times. If you run into the coach of the local pro team at the grocery store, these items could prove invaluable.

2. Summarize the story in the headline, such as which team won the game. Start the story with a strong first paragraph. The headline will catch the readers' attention, and the first few lines should entice them to continue reading.

3. Give the readers something they don't already know. While you do want to give the main details, such as who did what, when and where, including something extra will help your story stand out above others. An exclusive interview with a star player, for example, or a little-known back story about the team will prove invaluable.

4. Know the subject. You might know every rule and penalty in the game of baseball, but if you cover a cricket match and are not up on the sport your story will suffer. Immerse yourself in all sports you may have to cover.

5. Bust out the thesaurus. Using lively action words in the title and in the body of the story will keep readers' attention. For instance, instead of "beat" or "defeated," try something more colorful such as "whooped" or "annihilated." "Won" is tired. "Soared above" is graphic.

Resources

• Guide to sports journalism jobs