Lecture: Sports Journalism and Broadcasting

Introduction

• Speaker: Mike Butterworth, Director, Center for Sports Communication and Media
• Event: Frank Deford Lecture in Sports Journalism, part of the McGar Symposium on Sports and Society
• Special Guest: Joe Buck, play-by-play announcer

Acknowledgments

• Thanks to Kappy McGar for supporting the symposium
• Recognition of Moody College staff and interim Dean Anita Evangelisti
• Anticipated Q&A session post-presentation

About Frank Deford

• Renowned American sportswriter, began career at Sports Illustrated in 1962
• Authored 15 books, notable ones include "Everybody's All-American" and "Alex: The Life of a Child"
• Advocated for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, serving as National Chairman
• Legacy includes numerous awards and honors, including six-time U.S. Sportswriter of the Year

Joe Buck's Career Highlights

• Current play-by-play announcer for ESPN's Monday Night Football
• Longest-running broadcast tandem with Troy Aikman
• Started NFL broadcasting in 1994
• Called multiple major sporting events: World Series, MLB All-Star Games, Super Bowls
• Authored "Lucky Bastard: My Life, My Dad, and the Things I'm Not Allowed to Say on TV"

Broadcasting Insights

• Preparation: Vital in broadcasting, involves extensive research and understanding of game dynamics
• Challenges: Maintaining personality and authenticity in broadcasting amid a changing media landscape
• Mentorship: Benefitted from proximity to his father, legendary broadcaster Jack Buck

Themes Discussed

• Versatility: Importance of being adaptable and versatile in broadcasting
• Confidence Building: Overcoming self-doubt, dealing with being a "nepo baby"
• Work Ethic: Emphasizes the importance of outworking competitors
• Audience Engagement: Highlighting importance of being able to laugh at oneself and handle criticism

Changes in Sports Broadcasting

• Loss of Distinctive Personalities: Harder now to maintain unique broadcasting styles
• Digital Impact: Shift from traditional broadcasting to multiple platforms, including online streaming

Personal Experiences and Anecdotes

• Career Start: Started young due to connections but emphasizes hard work
• Voice Challenges: Dealt with a paralyzed vocal cord affecting his career
• Memorable Moments: Notable calls include the Minneapolis Miracle and 2011 World Series Game 6

Advice to Aspiring Broadcasters

• Be open to diverse opportunities in broadcasting
• Embrace and capitalize on unique personal traits
• Understand the importance of being well-rounded and informed

Conclusion

• Encouragement to stay adaptable and open-minded in the evolving field of sports media
• Acknowledgment of the importance of live sports as a key element in broadcasting’s future