World Sports Journalists Day

Sports journalism is a type of journalistic work that covers athletics and sports. News, analysis, and opinion on numerous sporting events are the focus of this style of journalism. Reporting on everything from small-scale high school competitions to important world competitions like the Olympics is the responsibility of sports journalists. They are in charge of delivering the most recent information and analysis about sports fans' favoured teams and athletes.

The sports field depends heavily on sports journalists. They are in charge of informing the audience of the most recent sports news. Additionally, they offer analysis and commentary on the results of contests, tactics, and the performances of players and teams. Interviewing athletes and coaches and securing special access to sporting events are tasks assigned to sports journalists. They must be well-versed in a variety of sports and possess a thorough knowledge of the traditions, laws, and rules governing each sport.

The field of sports journalism is difficult. The most difficult task is keeping up with the fast-paced sports world. News and commentary from sports writers must be delivered promptly, frequently in real-time. They must be able to operate efficiently under time constraints and deliver accurate, trustworthy information. They must also be able to take criticism and unfavourable comments from both fans and athletes.

Sports journalism has a promising future. Sports journalists may now reach a larger audience than ever, thanks to the growth of digital media. They can interact with fans and offer real-time updates on sporting events through social media sites. In-depth analyses and insights into games and athletes can also be provided using analytics and statistics. But to remain relevant in the always-changing world of sports, sports journalists must continue to adapt and develop as citizen journalism grows and traditional media declines.

The sports industry would not function without sports journalism. News, analysis, and commentary on anything from small-town high school games to important worldwide sporting events are delivered by sports writers. They are essential in preserving fans' interest in and knowledge of their preferred sports and athletes. Despite the difficulties in the industry, sports journalism has a promising future, and those who are interested in entering the area can be successful if they have the necessary skills and knowledge.

On the occasion of world sports journalist day here's a talk with the consulting sports editor from O Heraldo, Jovito Lopes

What made you want to do your current job?

It is sheer passion.

How did you get there? 

Begun writing small reports on matches. The Navhind Times News Editor gave me the push, and then the Editors, especially Bikram Vohra. 

What is a typical day at work like? 

As a Reporter and then the Head of Sports Pages, it is a round-the-clock engagement.

What’s the best thing about your job? 

You have to be alert at all times. 

What is the most challenging thing about your job? 

Investigative part with performance analysis. You are on your toes until the pages are finalised. You cannot miss any story. 

What advice do you have for people who want to do what you do? 

Reflect. Research. Report. Be smart and do a smart job with love always. 

What things do you wish you’d known before starting your career? 

I needed better counsellors to show me the various avenues. Goa did not have any at that time. 

How have things changed since you first started working in this industry? 

Missed many good opportunities forgetting that the world offers much more and better and bigger choices. 

What do you think sets your work apart from other sports reporters? 

We are a local newspaper. So the preference for major local events. International and National, as well as Regional, are also Important.

I believe reporters need to do an analytical job and do some research to write with authority besides mastery over the language. Knowledge has to be in-depth.   

How do you work under a tight deadline?

We have to meet deadlines. It calls for coordination and collaboration with reporters, sub-editors, and page designers. 

How do you prioritize sports stories for the day?

Priorities are football and cricket at the world level. National championships are important. Football in Goa is accorded top priority. That does not mean other sports are neglected. Medal winners are always given top priority.

If you could choose another career, what would it be and why? 

Counselling. You get rooted to the latest, and dissemination becomes very important in this ever-changing world. Above all, you feel young dealing with youngsters.