In this post
Sports Journalism – Have You Got What It Takes?
Candlefox
Interested in sports journalism? Other than a love of sport, you’ll need exceptional writing skills, an ability to create great stories, and most likely, a journalism degree.
What’s the Working Environment Like?
Newsrooms are mostly fast-paced and unpredictable environments, where each day is unique and exciting.
Working hours are irregular and long as a journalist, so expecting a 9 to 5 work structure won’t go down well here. Deadlines can also be tight and strict and may need to turn out pieces on a fast and frequent basis.
Plenty of travel is also an intrinsic part of being a sports journalist, and working outdoors in various kinds of weather conditions is often required.
What Types of Journalist Roles Are Out There?
Editors
Editors manage, formulate and collate stories across the board for a publication (or an area of a publication) and give assignments to writers; they will often have the final say on pieces before they go to print (or air).
Leader Writers
Leader writers generally write editorials and can fill in for the editor or other senior writers when they are absent.
Feature Writers
Feature writers create feature pieces, which will often hone in on key events or people; feature stories are often more detailed, creative and commentary-focused
Columnists
Columnists write shorter but regular pieces for a publication, usually known as a ‘column.’ Columns will generally focus on one particular area (e.g. sports) and offer opinion and commentary.
What Skills Do You Need to Become a Sports Journo?
- A passion or keen interest in all forms of sport and current sporting events
- An ability to ‘chase’ or hunt down stories and build networks that consistently lead to good stories
- Excellent creative writing and editing skills, with the capacity to find story angles, yet write objectively and without bias
- Great research, interviewing, and fact-checking skills
- Willingness to learn about all facets of journalism (not just sports reporting)
- Willingness to start “at the bottom” and even in another journalism area
- Willingness to travel to where the sport/news is happening
- A strong understanding of social media and online media
- An ability to work independently, without much supervision
Journalist Gender Share
Journalist Employment Share
Getting a Journalism Qualification
Sports journalism is an exciting and fast-paced journalistic world. At present, there are around 22,500 journalists employed in Australia.
Although it’s not strictly mandatory, a Bachelor’s degree can be beneficial if you want to become a journalist in any field.
However, that’s not to say that someone without this qualification cannot thrive in this industry. With experience gained through interning, along with exceptional written and verbal communication skills and of course a genuine passion for sports journalism, becoming a sports journalist without a Bachelor’s degree is definitely achievable.
If you’re tossing up whether (sports) journalism is right for you, you can start with a Certificate course and move on to a Bachelor’s qualification from there.
Journalists most often have qualifications in:
- Journalism
- Communications
- Professional Writing
With a variety of courses in class, online and blended learning, there is an added flexibility when studying Journalism – this allows individuals to make their study experience their own with the choice to study their way.
Top 5 Skills For a Journalist
- Active Listening – 85% important
- Reading Comprehension – 85% important
- Writing – 82% important
- Speaking – 80% important
- Critical Thinking – 75% important
What Else Can You Do to Increase Your Chances of Journo Success?
- Write as much as you can! Become involved with your university paper or magazine, or contribute to community papers or publications in your local area.
- Stay abreast of what’s happening in the sporting world, for all sports – don’t bury your head in the sand!
- Volunteer or take on an internship that allows you to gain experience in a ‘real life’ newsroom.
- Practice taking impressive photos to accompany your articles, as you may be required to do this in conjunction with your reporting.
- Write or contribute to a blog that you can also use to showcase your journalism talents and build a portfolio.
If you love sport and think a career in sports journalism could be right for you, why not review our journalism courses? You’ll learn the basics of what it means to be a journalist and how to succeed in the sporting world. If sports is your thing but writing isn’t, explore a career in sports coaching instead.
Browse Results
Certified AI-Powered Digital Marketing Specialist
Digital marketing in Australia is growing rapidly, SEEK are forecasting a 11.4% increase in job opportunities over the next five years. With roles available nationwide and an average salary of $88,000, now is the ideal time to build in-demand skills an...
Diploma of Counselling Practice CHC51015
Gain a solid theoretical foundation to start your journey into counselling practice or further study. The Institute’s Diploma of Counselling Practice introduces you to general counselling theories, ethical and legal practice, personal and professional...
Double Diploma of Project Management and Leadership & Management BSB50420,BSB50820
CAL’s Double Diploma of Project Management Practice and Leadership & Management has been designed to equip you to succeed in project management and leadership roles with the ability to plan, design, apply and evaluate solutions. You’ll gain the sk...
Double Diploma of Human Resource Management + Leadership & Management BSB50320,BSB50420
CAL’s Double Diploma of Human Resource Management + Leadership & Management gives you the skills you need to progress your career into senior leadership roles. You’ll be equipped with the skills you need to lead and manage workplace relationships,...
Diploma of Human Resource Management BSB50320
Human resource (HR) management is a valuable and rewarding career, with HR expertise essential in every modern business. Human resources professionals today lead the human resources department, supporting staff with personal and professional developmen...
Double Diploma of Business (Leadership) & Leadership & Management BSB50120,BSB50420
By completing the Double Diploma of Business (Leadership) and Leadership & Management, you’ll develop key skills in resource management, leadership and communication. You’ll strengthen your ability to manage teams, policies and finances, preparing...
Diploma of Building and Construction (Management) CPC50308
Unlock the next level of your career with our future-focused Construction Management qualification. The modern workplace now actively seeks out and rewards construction project managers who: Are not afraid to lead, motivate and inspire their team Can c...
Certificate III in Business BSB30120
Get the skills, knowledge and practical experience you need to start a career in the Business sector, with Open Colleges’ BSB30120 Certificate III in Business. Gain a strong set of practical office skills that are valued by employers, which you can put...
Graduate Diploma of Sport Management
The Graduate Diploma of Sport Management (GDSM) has been developed based on extensive consultation with experts in the field. This provides you with not only a post-graduate degree but also crucial work experience that aligns with industry requirements...
Data Analytics Launchpad Certificate
Curious about the world of data but not sure where to start? The Data Analytics Launchpad is your entry point into one of the fastest-growing fields in tech. Over 10 weeks, you’ll build practical skills in data analysis, visualisation, and storytelling...
AI-Powered Full Stack Business Analyst Diploma
Bridge strategy and code. Lead with insight. Build with impact. The Diploma in AI-Powered Full Stack Business Analyst uniquely blends business analysis, UI design, creating applications with low-code tool, front-end coding skills, and AI-driven workflo...
Business Analyst & Salesforce Certification
Ready to drive strategic decisions and shape powerful tech solutions? Excited to bridge the gap between business needs and technology? Learn to analyse, strategise, and design innovative solutions as an AI-Powered Business Analyst. From mastering Agile...
AI-Powered Full Stack Developer Diploma
Ready to go from the basics to become the centre of AI innovation? Launch your tech career with our structured 32-week Diploma, combines two powerful Accelerators. You’ll start by learning to create modern full stack applications from scratch, th...
Full Stack Developer Micro-credential: Technology Product Development Essentials Certificate
Excited about solving real-world business and community challenges by builiding full-scale web applications? Step into the future of tech with our Full Stack Developer programme. You’ll dive into the world of software development – combining fron...
Data Analytics and Advanced Business Intelligence Diploma
Ready to build a complete skillset in data analytics, step-by-step? Whether you’re just starting or looking to grow into a more technical role, this programme gives you the hands-on skills and confidence to extract insights, automate workflows, a...
Certificate IV in School Based Education Support (VIC ONLY) CHC40221
The qualification CHC40221 – Certificate IV in School Based Education Support is referred to in industry as the Cert 4 Education Support or your teacher’s aide course. Education support workers assist teachers and support student learning in a range of...
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (Melbourne Only) CHC30121
Are you patient, flexible and wanting to help nurture our future generation? Our CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a course designed for entry-level into the early childhood education and care industry. As a childcare wo...
Animal Health & Veterinary Care Foundations
Get ready to turn your love for animals into a rewarding career! Go behind the scenes with animal and veterinary care experts at RSPCA Queensland and other leading organisations. Find your passion as you learn about every aspect of animal health and ca...
Psychology & Mental Health Essentials
Explore the fascinating psychology behind our brains, bodies and behaviours and learn new ways to improve mental health and wellbeing. Learn directly from Australia’s leading counsellors, psychologists and health coaches. Discover the complex inner wor...
Bachelor of Sports Coaching (Management) (NSW Only)
The Bachelor of Sport Coaching (Management) is a specialised degree that incorporates a strong focus on building coaching experience and management expertise. The result is a flexible foundation to build upon the key competencies appropriate to highly...
Online courses also available
Latest Articles
Agriculture Careers: What You Should Know in 2025
As one of Australia's most important industries, the agriculture industry offers great career opport...
Are Digital Skills the Key to Job Security in 2025?
The digital revolution is here, and it doesn’t care if you have a technical job or not — it’s coming...
How to Become a Chef in Australia: Complete Guide for 2025
The complete guide to becoming a chef in Australia. Learn how to get your start and make it in the h...
Want to read more?
Is the Future Secure for Counselling and Mental Health Careers?
Take a glimpse into the future of mental health careers such as counselling, and get started on your...
Apprenticeships and Traineeships: 6 Major Myths Debunked
Find out the truth about apprenticeships and traineeships, including the apprenticeship wage and wha...
Changing Careers and Starting Your Own Business: How a Professional Photographer Took the Plunge
Looking for a career change? Read how a former amateur photographer became a professional and turned...
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Get expert advice, insights, and explainers on tricky topics — designed to help you navigate your learning journey with confidence.
