NFL Runs 'Broadcasting Boot Camp' for Aging Players

Intensive course prepares sportscaster hopefuls for being on the other side
By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff
Posted Jun 27, 2009 9:07 AM CDT
NFL Runs 'Broadcasting Boot Camp' for Aging Players
Washington Redskins defensive end Renaldo Wynn was among the NFL players who attended a recent training session for players considering a career in media.   (AP Photo/Mike Groll, File)

The NFL is teaching two dozen pros nearing the end of their playing days how to tackle a media career in its third annual "Broadcasting Boot Camp," the Washington Post reports. The would-be sportscasters were no strangers to the camera, but many needed extensive coaching from ex-players with media jobs to get over things they considered taboo—like pumping other players for information or, worse, publicly criticizing them.

The players—whose practice tapes were sent to TV execs—were told that expressing opinions is fine, but that they would need to do research to make sure they could back them up. A broadcasting coach laughed when recently retired Patriots tight end Kyle Brady said he didn't think the public would care about his old football stories. "If you say, 'I remember when...'" he told the player, "you've got 'em." (More NFL stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X