Match Commentator

What the role involves

• Prepare detailed match and player research
• Commentate live and read the game
• Work with co-commentators and producers

Ways in, with or without formal qualifications

Experience, knowledge and interests count in football. These routes are what people in this role commonly point to.

• Experience

  Local radio, press and fanzines

  Writing and broadcasting about local clubs gives access to matches, players and managers, and a body of published work.

• Self-built

  Run a football channel, newsletter or podcast

  Consistent public work, whether writing, video, audio or data, builds an audience and a portfolio at the same time.

• Network

  Supporters' trust and fan groups

  Fan-owned and fan-run groups give experience in governance, communications, events and campaigning, and visibility at the club.

Qualifications and licences

None of these is a barrier to entry, but each can help you learn, get noticed or move up later.

• Degree

  Journalism Qualification (NCTJ, broadcast or degree)

  A recognised journalism qualification, valuable for newsroom jobs. Many creators and commentators succeed without one, but employers still look for ethics, law and reporting training.

Skills and knowledge

• Broadcasting & Presenting
• Football Knowledge & Culture
• Communication
• Presenting & Public Speaking

Tools you may use

• Video, audio and design software

Where this role is found

• Media & broadcasting

Where this role leads

• Pundit / Analyst (Media)

  Not needed

  Offers expert opinion and analysis on television, radio and online.

Common stepping stones into this role

• Broadcast Producer

Pay and context by region

Illustrative estimates scaled from a UK baseline. Check local job adverts and union or association data.