1st Place, Live Sports Announcer
2023-24, Division 1-2, Video Talent and Airchecks
By Ben Schadel
WDBC Dragon Broadcasting
Lake Orion HS
VT-03. Live Sports Announcer
A compilation of a talent’s best on-air work as play-by-play, color commentator or sideline reporter. The airchecks should be recorded at a live sports event in real time. The announcer does not have to always appear on-camera, and the entry may be limited to announcer speaking over video of game action. Attire is a factor in the judging.
Judging Criteria
- WRITING: Is the writing clear, concise and conversational? Does the reporter use active voice and present tense? Does the script complement the visuals?
- RATE OF SPEECH: Do you talk too fast/slow?
- COMMUNICATION OF IDEAS: Do we understand what you’re talking about?
- COMMUNICATION OF EMOTION: Do you use voice fluctuation? Do you have emotion in your voice? Are you monotone?
- MIC WEAKNESS: Is your microphone too close or too far? Do we hear the sound of your paper script?
- SINCERITY: Do you come across as being genuine?
- NATURALNESS: Do we enjoy listening to you? Does it sound like you know what you’re doing?
- CREDIBILITY: Does it sound like YOU know what you’re talking about? Do you give credit to any sources that might be applicable?
- PROFESSIONAL ATTIRE: Are you dressed appropriately? Tuxedos and prom dresses aren’t necessary, but t-shirts and jeans aren’t appropriate either.
- OVERALL IMPRESSION
AUTOMATIC DISQUALIFICATIONS:
- If the video does not meet the specific time requirement (such as the 30/60s rule for PSAs & Commercials) (not including any black/slates before or after the video itself).
- If the video does not meet the category description.
- If the video includes copyrighted music or graphics.
USE OF MUSIC OR OTHER CONTENT THAT IS NOT CREATED BY STUDENT STAFF MEMBERS:
- If any music is included in an entry, indicate the title(s) of track(s) used and source of the music. Provide this information either in a name-slate/title card in a video entry or in the space provided on the entry form.
- If you are making a “fair use” claim on copyrighted materials, please cite your reasoning in the entry form