Structure of Broadcasting Roles

Sideline reporter

The least important job in covering sports because reporters talk about recent past events to players to get an idea of what was going through the athlete’s mind. While it is interesting to get that insight, it is not the most important job in conveying events transpiring in a game or match to the masses. This position is largely held by women and is subject to societal scrutiny that extends beyond sports. Female sideline reporters are harassed and threatened over social media for their bodies, while in the case of male sideline reporters like the late Craig Sager (notorious for ugly suits and ties) was lauded for his knowledge in sports in which his strange attire was commented on in a positive light. This double standard works to show that what the female sideline reporters have to say is unimportant and meaningless and that the fact that they have the job is because they are attractive and serve as added entertainment for the male gaze.

 

Color Commentator

Provides expert analysis, strategy, usually a role given to a former athlete of the sport.   They work alongside the main play-by-play announcer to explain certain rules and strategies that go on during a game. This role is almost always male because they are the ones who have experience playing that specific sport, so it makes sense to get that insight.

 

Main play-by-play

This position is the most important in relaying information to the viewer and is exclusively held by men. This role requires a lot of knowledge of the sport and a smooth and influential voice in relaying the events occurring in the game. Men who do not have much to any experience playing at the highest level hold this role because the public perception is that men should do this job because they are “expected” to know the sport.