Sports journalism career is demonstrated through centennial college’s sports journalism program

1. Sports Journalism Career is Demonstrated through Centennial College’s Sports
Journalism program
Sports Journalism is a very unique subset of journalism that requires not only writing and editing skills
but also a passion for sports and the athletes who compete on local, national and international levels.
At Centennial College’s Sports Journalism program, students are equipped with the knowledge they need
to excel in television, radio, film and Internet mediums. Through a balance of theory and practice,
students of Sports Journalism earn their Graduate Certificate and go on to work at Sports net, 680 News,
TSN, CBC Sports, Mississauga News, MLB.com, National Post and many other reputable companies.
The theory-practice balance enjoyed by Sports Journalism students is easily achieved with the help of the
facilities in which the program is housed. Known as The Centre of Creative Communications, this campus
offers students access to a TV studio, newsroom and large computer labs. Combined, these facilities
support students in developing a portfolio — which is essential when applying for jobs — of published
sports journalism stories, photos, videos, podcasts, columns, blogs and Tweets.
But what specific Sports Journalism courses are especially beneficial to students? Here are the
Top 5:
Sports interviewing and Beat Reporting: Setting the stage for activities that students will
complete in the Sports Journalism program, this class introduces theories and concepts
among which are: press conferences, pre- and post-game interviewing, one-on-one
interviews, as well as developing a beat.
Sports Reporting: Especially beneficial for those who haven’t had much experience in sports
reporting, this course introduces the basic concepts of reporting, writing, ethics and the
nature of the reporter’s job.
Total Sports – Stats and Research: An essential part of any sports journalism career, is the
reporting of sports statistics. This class introduces students to the type of research methods
needed in sports journalism, including how to use that information and stats to understand
context.
On-Air Performance: Turning from sports writing and sports editing to the on-air aspect, this
course teaches the necessary skills for on-air performance in radio, TV and the Internet,
including voice projection, ad lib, working off the teleprompter, studio direction and audio
direction.
Sports Observer/ Placement: Using all the skills learned in previous terms of the Sports
Journalism program, students put together a pair of large projects. The course is designed
for those more interested in pursuing a career in print and online sports journalism. The
course finishes with a six-week placement, which allows students to see what it is like in the
real world of Sports Journalism, network and apply what they have been taught by their
instructors.
Sports Journalism at Centennial College requires its applicants to have successfully completed a
post-secondary diploma or degree in any discipline. In addition, they must present their resume, submit a
portfolio, to include a minimum of three pieces of published or unpublished work. It is also worth noting
that The Sports Journalism program will consider applicants who present at least two years of post
secondary in combination with relevant experience in the field of journalism. These applicants may be
required to complete a writing test, which may be waived for applicants with a degree or diploma in
journalism.