5 answers
Kylie
Student
Manchester, New Hampshire
1
Question
Asked
835 views
How can I start making connections in sports?
I am a middle school student that has always been interested in sports. I love to ask questions and see sport reporting, journalism, and social media as something that I would be interested in.
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5 answers
Anuj Gupta
Software Engineering
330
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Anuj’s Answer
It is fantastic that you are looking to build connections in sports journalism and media while you are in middle school. The sports media industry relies heavily on networking, and starting early gives you a massive advantage.
Because you already love asking questions and watching how sports are reported, you have the exact curiosity it takes to be a great journalist. Here is a game plan to start building your network and portfolio right now, using tools and opportunities available to a middle schooler
Because you already love asking questions and watching how sports are reported, you have the exact curiosity it takes to be a great journalist. Here is a game plan to start building your network and portfolio right now, using tools and opportunities available to a middle schooler
Simi Stark
Social Impact Consultant
2
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Simi’s Answer
Hi Kylie,
Sports is definitely a competitive field, but it's also an industry where networking and relationships can open a lot of doors.
A few practical steps you can take:
1. Don't be afraid to reach out to people directly, the earlier you start making connections the better - it took me reaching out to 50+ to hear back from one. Send thoughtful messages, ask for informational interviews, and make connections. It often only takes one person responding to create an opportunity.
2. As you start to think about future job opportunities, think about experience in sports-adjacent roles. Consider working at rec centers, volunteering at sporting events, selling 50/50 raffle tickets at sports games, or getting involved with nonprofit organizations that partner with sports programs, such as the Boys & Girls Clubs.
3. Look for ways to build relevant skills through internships, event operations, marketing, communications, community relations, or fundraising—many sports professionals start in these areas.
4. Look to get involved in smaller teams -- minor leagues are incredible starts to the industry at a young age. Minor league baseball was my favorite job I ever had!
Most importantly, be persistent. Breaking into sports can take time, but every connection you make and every experience you gain helps build your network and credibility. Stay curious, keep learning, and continue putting yourself in situations where you can meet people in the industry. Those relationships often become the key to future opportunities.
Sports is definitely a competitive field, but it's also an industry where networking and relationships can open a lot of doors.
A few practical steps you can take:
1. Don't be afraid to reach out to people directly, the earlier you start making connections the better - it took me reaching out to 50+ to hear back from one. Send thoughtful messages, ask for informational interviews, and make connections. It often only takes one person responding to create an opportunity.
2. As you start to think about future job opportunities, think about experience in sports-adjacent roles. Consider working at rec centers, volunteering at sporting events, selling 50/50 raffle tickets at sports games, or getting involved with nonprofit organizations that partner with sports programs, such as the Boys & Girls Clubs.
3. Look for ways to build relevant skills through internships, event operations, marketing, communications, community relations, or fundraising—many sports professionals start in these areas.
4. Look to get involved in smaller teams -- minor leagues are incredible starts to the industry at a young age. Minor league baseball was my favorite job I ever had!
Most importantly, be persistent. Breaking into sports can take time, but every connection you make and every experience you gain helps build your network and credibility. Stay curious, keep learning, and continue putting yourself in situations where you can meet people in the industry. Those relationships often become the key to future opportunities.
Cecilia Alondra García Chacón
Lawyer
12
Answers
Chihuahua, Mexico
Updated
Cecilia Alondra’s Answer
Hi, Kylie!
Cecilia here from Mexico. Formally I have a Law degree, so I’m not a pro on that kind of journalism, but if I was you I tried to do my own on social media with my local teams and athletes. Like, maybe doing your YouTube channel or tik tok account and start with your school teams, then local and maybe if you have a chance to attend something bigger and make like a review or the highlights. Or try to look up to an internship in your local news in that area too.
Hope any of these ideas help you in something, please keep that passion and never give up!
Cecilia here from Mexico. Formally I have a Law degree, so I’m not a pro on that kind of journalism, but if I was you I tried to do my own on social media with my local teams and athletes. Like, maybe doing your YouTube channel or tik tok account and start with your school teams, then local and maybe if you have a chance to attend something bigger and make like a review or the highlights. Or try to look up to an internship in your local news in that area too.
Hope any of these ideas help you in something, please keep that passion and never give up!
I'm excited to put your great advice to good use!
Kylie
Logan Leal, M.A.
Communications Consultant
14
Answers
Sacramento, California
Updated
Logan’s Answer
Hi Kylie :) one tip I have for you is to attend as many local and school sporting events that you can. As you attend, try asking the coaches or players for some opportunities to volunteer. This will give you a chance to ask about their experiences, and the can help give you guidance on breaking into sports journalism/social media.
I studied journalism and communication studies in college. I also have ran the social media for my local tennis club. I did not pursue sports journalism/marketing, but I did meet a lot of people in high school and college who provided great advice, and even got me my first marketing internship!
Keep following your passion and interest here. Best of luck, great question, and feel free to reach out if you have any follow-up questions.
I studied journalism and communication studies in college. I also have ran the social media for my local tennis club. I did not pursue sports journalism/marketing, but I did meet a lot of people in high school and college who provided great advice, and even got me my first marketing internship!
Keep following your passion and interest here. Best of luck, great question, and feel free to reach out if you have any follow-up questions.
Ida Holden
TEM analyst
4
Answers
Georgetown, Texas
Updated
Ida’s Answer
Hi Kylie,
It's great to see your enthusiasm for sports reporting! Try choosing a few sports you enjoy the most and talk to the coaches at your school about covering them. If your school has a yearbook or newsletter, consider joining that club. You'll get to improve your skills and learn from your classmates and teachers. Best of luck!
It's great to see your enthusiasm for sports reporting! Try choosing a few sports you enjoy the most and talk to the coaches at your school about covering them. If your school has a yearbook or newsletter, consider joining that club. You'll get to improve your skills and learn from your classmates and teachers. Best of luck!