ABSTRACT
In this chapter, sports commentators from the major American networks share their accounts of what is required of them to serve as the eyes and ears for millions of viewers. They define their responsibilities for keeping fans engaged and entertained by conveying information about what is happening, how it happened, and why it matters. The commentators explain how they have had to keep pace with sports viewers who now have online access to much of the same details and background information that they have in front of them in their broadcast booths. We trace the evolution of sports television analysts and the impact that instant replay and new technologies have had on their assignments. It also pays tribute to the pioneers who broke the color and gender barriers in sports broadcasting. And it lays out the requirements that aspiring sports commentators will need if they are to succeed in the profession.
