Sports Experience

• Most sports analysts have extensive experience in the sport they are covering. In radio and television, sports analysts are frequently retired players who excelled in their sports. Print media and Internet analysts are also usually expert at the sport they are analyzing. You can gain experience by attending sporting events or following them in the media. It is helpful, however, that you gain your experience by actually playing the sport you want to cover.
  
  

Education

• Many colleges and universities offer degrees in communications, journalism and mass media. Northwestern University, Syracuse and Vanderbilt are three examples of schools that provide outstanding programs for sports analysts. Classes on sports reporting, sports production, play-by-play training and sports analysis are also helpful. Many of these programs teach you how to write and edit as well and also offer courses on communication and sports marketing. You can also gain valuable experience by working on the university's radio or newspaper staffs.
  
  

Writing Experience

• The ability to write effectively is also a skill sports analysts should possess. Experience writing for a newspaper, online, or for magazines and other media is useful for prospective sports analysts. While in school, you can volunteer to write for the newspaper or yearbook staff. Work is also available from local newspapers as well as online sites. Courses on writing are also available both online and from your local colleges and high schools. Select a program or source that interests you and allows you to practice sports analysis skills.
  
  

Other Experience

• Experience interviewing coaches and players is also valuable. You can gain this experience from many sources, including your local Little League and American Legion baseball programs. Practice speaking with people you know at first and then move on to interviewing semi-pro and minor league players. Attend as many games as possible for the sport you want to cover. Arrive early, stay late and speak with as many of the athletes and coaches as you can. Develop a network of people who can help you gain experience and your career will flourish.