Odyssey High School Coaching Staff (25/26)
Position:High School Game Announcer
F.L.S.A.: Exempt/Seasonal
Required: Be at least 19 years of age experience in sportseffective communication skills ability to work part-time evenings and weekends during the sport season and must obtain (or have applied for) a valid IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card.
Direct Report: Athletic Director
Terms of Employment: Per season stipend
Position Overview:
A high school game announcer provides live commentary and announcements during athletic events enhancing the spectator experience and promoting a positive atmosphere.
Key Responsibilities:
- Deliver clear engaging and informative live announcements over the public address (PA) system.
- Announce player introductions substitutions and provide key game updates and scores.
- Follow game protocols and work in close coordination with the athletics department and officials.
- Promote good sportsmanship by remaining neutral and respectful towards both teams coaches and officials.
- Provide timely and pertinent information such as upcoming events safety procedures and recognition announcements.
- Be prepared for games by reviewing rosters statistics and game protocols.
- Maintain a professional and engaging demeanor throughout the event.
- Be knowledgeable about the sport and its rules.
Qualifications:
- Excellent verbal communication and public speaking skills.
- Clear and concise speaking voice.
- Ability to think quickly and adapt to changing game situations.
- Ability to remain calm under pressure especially during emergencies.
- Strong knowledge of the sport(s) being announced.
- Experience in broadcasting public speaking or a similar role is preferred but not always required.
- Reliability and availability to work during game days which may include evenings and weekends.
Important considerations for high school announcers:
- High school athletics are educationally based and the announcers role is to promote a positive and sportsmanlike environment rather than incite the crowd or act as a cheerleader for one team.
- Announcements should focus on providing accurate information and should avoid personal commentary criticizing officials or emphasizing winning above all else.
- Silence during gameplay or when the ball is live is generally preferred with announcements taking place during timeouts breaks or other stoppages in play.
- Its important to be prepared for games by familiarizing oneself with team rosters statistics and game protocols including correct pronunciations of names.
- Utilize vocal variety and avoid shouting or talking too fast which can make announcements difficult to understand.