Sports writing, editing and directing are highly competitive careers. Not only do they require the literary and written communication skills of other writing careers, but individuals in these positions must also be highly knowledgeable regarding — usually — several sports. The specific sports-related knowledge required includes game strategy, history, rules, athletes, teams and leagues as a partial list of many specialties. Successful sports writing skills, editing skills and good people management skills are among the abilities and experience needed to become a sports director or editor. Educational preparation usually requires a bachelor's degree in English, journalism and/or sports communication.
It is never too early to begin your efforts to become a sports director or editor. Garner as much sports experience as you can. Play organized sports in whatever capacity your capabilities allow — even a church softball league counts. If actually playing in competition is not possible, volunteer to be a team's uniform manager, basic athletic trainer, water boy or girl, or scorekeeper. Every minute of exposure to sports, at whatever level, will help you to absorb the culture of sport and competition.
Read the entire contents of the sports page of your local newspaper daily. Sports writing often relies on jargon and slang, which is used in print but not verbally. In order to eventually become a sports director or editor you will almost certainly have to become a sports writer first. Frequent exposure to sports writing styles will allow you to learn a great deal informally outside of the classroom. Use your leisure reading time to peruse the books by the deans of sports writing.
Plan your college major and any related minors with your goal in mind to become a sports director or editor. Most sports writers have a bachelor's degree in English, journalism or sports communication. Use your time in higher education to also obtain valuable experience by working at school's newspaper in whatever capacity you can. You might find yourself able to obtain editing and managing experience more easily at this level, as most participants only want to write.
After graduation, most beginning sports directors will need to accept a less lucrative position with a newspaper that has a sports page. While in this type of position, you should try to work cheerfully and demonstrate excellent writing and people skills. With a great deal of perseverance and luck, you might be able to work your way up the chain of command to become a sports director or editor.
