Episode 116 – ​​Daniel Cherny

Mastering Sports Journalism Techniques: A Comprehensive Guide

Sports journalism is a dynamic field that requires a unique blend of passion, precision, and proficiency. Whether you’re a budding enthusiast or an experienced pro, honing your skills is crucial for success. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the key techniques that can elevate your sports reporting to the next level. Mastering Sports Journalism Techniques is essential in capturing the essence of the game and conveying it to your audience. It involves not only knowing the ins and outs of various sports but also understanding the art of storytelling and the nuances of journalistic ethics. Daniel, who worked as a sportswriter for The Age and a freelancer for various digital media companies, exemplified the essence of Mastering Sports Journalism Techniques in his engaging and insightful pieces. His work stood out for its depth of knowledge and the ability to weave narratives that resonated with readers, showcasing the impact of honing these techniques in the competitive world of sports reporting. Mastering Sports Journalism Techniques isn’t just a skill; it’s an ongoing journey of growth and refinement, and it’s a journey that every sports journalist must embark upon.

Highlights from the episode:

• When he started his passion for sports journalism
• His influencers and mentors
• Challenges and what he learned from it
• How he deals with public judgment
• Fave movie or TV series

The Early Foundations: A Passion Ignited

At what age did you discover that you had a passion for sports journalism? When I think back, I probably was there, even from a very young kid, when I really stepped back now, probably from the age of as early as I can remember, which is about the age of five or six. I would devour the sports pages we used to get delivered at home. As soon as I could read, I would immerse myself in them, looking through the untipped teams and players. As my grasp of the English language got better, I started delving into the actual stories themselves. This early fascination set the foundation for my journey in sports journalism.

Mentors and Influences: Nurturing Growth

For any aspiring sports journalist, having mentors and strong influences can be invaluable. These are the guiding lights that illuminate the path to success. In my case, I was fortunate enough to have individuals like Ash Brown, a senior writer at the AFL record, who played a pivotal role in my development. While networking opportunities were limited in the early days, I sought out connections, leveraging even the slightest acquaintances for advice and insight. These mentors provided not only technical guidance but also instilled in me a deeper understanding of the industry’s nuances.

Challenges: Navigating the Ever-changing Terrain

Sports journalism is not for the faint of heart. It’s a profession that presents fresh challenges each day, demanding adaptability and resilience. The perpetual tension between the exhilaration of a successful day and the anticipation of the next challenge is both invigorating and occasionally stressful. One of the toughest aspects I’ve encountered is the realization that I’ve made errors in my reporting. Whether it’s jumping the gun too early, going too hard on a story, or misjudging the timing, these moments are humbling. They serve as potent reminders of the need for meticulousness and precision in this field.

Handling Public Scrutiny: A Test of Grit

In the digital age, sports journalists are no strangers to public scrutiny. Social media platforms serve as arenas where opinions, both constructive and critical, are amplified. While dealing with outright abuse can be somewhat bearable, it’s the critiques from industry peers or credible sources that pose a different challenge. Receiving feedback, whether positive or negative, is part and parcel of the job. It’s an opportunity for growth and refinement. Striking the balance between respecting differing opinions and staying true to your journalistic integrity is a skill that evolves with experience.

The Impact of Culture: Beyond Journalism

While the essence of sports journalism lies in reporting, there are influences outside the realm of journalism that shape our perspectives. For me, it’s the world of entertainment, particularly shows like “The Simpsons” and “Seinfeld,” that have left an indelible mark. These cultural touchstones have not only shaped my sense of humor but also provided a unique lens through which I view the world. Sometimes, it’s the non-journalistic influences that contribute significantly to our growth as sports journalists.

Conclusion: A Journey of Growth and Resilience

Mastering sports journalism is a journey marked by continuous learning and adaptation. From the early days of devouring sports pages to navigating the complexities of public scrutiny, every step contributes to growth. Embracing challenges, seeking guidance from mentors, and finding inspiration beyond the field are the pillars that support this journey. Remember, it’s not just about reporting scores and stats; it’s about telling compelling stories that resonate with audiences. So, embark on this journey with passion and purpose, and watch as your skills in sports journalism flourish.

People Mentioned:

• Ashley Browne
• Caroline Wilson
• Wayne Carey
• Peter Ryan
• Jake Niall
• Michael Gleeson
• John Peric
• Charlie Hapel
• Mitch Cleary
• Mark Mcgowan
• Peter Wright

Connect:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-cherny-88418546/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanielCherny

Listen: iTunes | Spotify