Football Commentator Gary Taphouse's advice for aspiring students

Gary Taphouse (Image Courtesy: BlueSky)

Second-year student Michael Addison spoke to Sky Sports football commentator Gary Taphouse about his route into the industry, offering advice to students of what they need to make it in the field.

Experience is referred to constantly if you dream of a career in sports media, as new graduates from universities search for jobs despite a lack of roles available in the industry.

Gary stated his desire was to work in football as a commentator, leading to an opportunity to commentate on AFC Bournemouth’s home games.

From his experience with the Cherries, Gary was able to build a portfolio of work which he describes as it as being as important having the degree, stressing that students should make the most of the facilities universities have to offer to prove people what you are capable of.

Taphouse shared how many people reach out to him about becoming a reporter for a show such as Soccer Saturday, with his message telling those who aspire for a specific role in the industry is to prove that you can do it.

“Get a camera, get yourself a microphone and a headset, and imagine that a goal has been scored and tell people exactly what has happened, add some effects and make it look like you are on the show.

“Use your imagination, get in touch with your local non-league football clubs because they are always looking for people to help them with interviews and social media.”

Talking about getting into this industry after university, Gary did not obtain a job in sports media straight away, explaining the route he went down, working in local news, combining that with commentary on weekends, growing his experience, before getting his chance in sports broadcasting at the age of 25.

Gary made it clear that he had dreamed of becoming a commentator since the age of 15, making it his plan for a future career, making it his mission to do so, citing the World Cup as the inspiration to spark his affinity with commentary, following his dream.

Making this career choice his plan a, which he stuck to.

Not only was commentary Gary’s main attribute, learning vital skills when completing his degree in multimedia journalism, including writing – covering news writing, law and shorthand, important tools to have.  

You can watch the whole interview below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rBvDXalRVQU