Dive into the dynamic world of sports broadcasting in this comprehensive two-week intensive course at IMG Academy. Learn first-hand from industry professionals and gain exclusive access to professional-grade equipment and facilities used in sports media production. The course combines theoretical knowledge of the sports broadcasting business with practical skills in play-by-play announcing, production techniques, and modern sports podcasting. Students will develop their unique broadcasting style while understanding the technical and creative aspects of sports media production in today's digital age. Classroom learning will be supplemented with off-campus field trips to professional sports venues that may include LECOM Park (Pittsburgh Pirates Spring Training Facility), Tropicana Field (Tampa Bay Rays), and broadcast boots and production facilities.

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate understanding of sports broadcasting industry structure and business models
2. Execute basic production techniques for live sports coverage
3. Perform play-by-play and color commentary for various sporting events
4. Operate fundamental broadcasting equipment and software
5. Demonstrate understanding of social media integration in sports broadcasting

Capstone Projects

Live Event Broadcast Project

Students will plan, produce, and execute a complete live broadcast of an IMG Academy sporting event. Working in production teams, they'll handle all aspects of the broadcast including pre-game preparation, technical setup, and live coverage with play-by-play announcing, color commentary, and sideline reporting. Each team member will rotate through key roles including on-air talent, director, camera operator, and technical director. The final deliverable will include the full broadcast recording, production documentation, and a brief self-evaluation report.

Sports Podcast Series Project

Students will create a three-episode sports podcast series focusing on IMG Academy athletics and the local sports scene. Each 15-20 minute episode will feature a different theme, incorporating interviews with coaches, players, and local sports figures, along with analysis and commentary. Students will learn professional audio production techniques, interview skills, and content planning while developing their on-air personalities. The series will follow a consistent format with proper intro/outro music, segment transitions, and professional-quality audio production, culminating in three fully produced episodes ready for distribution.