My Experience with Live Sports Production at JMU

By: Brady Noblin

Photo courtesy of Storyblocks

When declaring my minor in sport communication, I learned that I had to take a practicum in order to complete the minor. One of these options was to work under Kelly Bowmaster, the director of live productions, where I learned that I may be interested in a new career path for my future.

What is it?

While doing this job, students work alongside ESPN+ and the JMU Sports Network, meaning the work you are doing is being broadcasted on live TV. Students will be required to work a total of 90 hours, which is the equivalent to working 2-3 games a week.

There are two different sections students will have to work on during the practicum. The first is with cameras, which involves learning how to work them, correctly filming the game in front of you, and the mastering the ability to stay focused. Depending on what season you work, there are many different sports that may need to be filmed, and all of them require different techniques.

The other part is working in the control room. While working here, students can expect to do things in a few different areas; some including replays, graphics, and audio. These are the actions you see on TV when you watch sports at home, but the cool part is that you are the one who are making them happen. 

Sticking with It

The training students get for the practicum is very minimal. Kelly runs the job in a way that is learning through doing. Students will be thrown in different areas and get a quick rundown, but after that, you will be expected to learn as you go.

The most important thing I learned from this experience was that I can do things that I never thought I would be able to do. It is very stressful and overwhelming when you first start and things can feel hopeless, but despite this, it is important to realize that all the other students are in the same situation.

One of my first times doing the replays I was extremely nervous and was practicing before the game with Kelly. This is one example of how he is an outstanding instructor, as he always makes sure his students understand the basics before throwing them on something, and he is one of the main reasons I chose to stay with the program.

I go through all of this to say that it is important to believe in yourself. You will never accomplish anything without trying or by quitting early. Let your knowledge and expertise sharpen and learn things that seem difficult. 

New Opportunities

Before I worked under Kelly, I had no idea live sports production would be a career path I would be interested in. I surprised myself with how quickly I was able to learn everything and how efficient I got at multiple positions. By working every week, learning comes quickly and I was able to become effective in most areas.

After the practicum is over, you will be left with great tools under your belt that can be taken into other areas of life. Internships and even job offers can be available if it is something you want to continue with. Regardless if you want to continue a career in live sports productions or not, the connections, skills, and relationships you will build throughout the practicum make the experience worth while.