Reflecting on my experience in the virtual Sport Communication class, I was able to take a deep dive into the world of sports media. I learned how to write and blog about sports media. I learned how to write and blog about sports in a professional and impactful way, while also understanding with what I share publicly. Gaining insight into the perspective of sports journalists helped me appreciate the craft behind storytelling and the vital role communication plays in the sports industry.

This course taught me a lot about my major as well, Sports Management, by exposing me to various forms of media and how they influence the industry. I was surprised to learn how significant blogs are in shaping public perception and delivering news. It truly opened my eyes to a side of the sports world I hadn’t considered before. This knowledge will be incredibly valuable in my future career, giving me a broader understanding of the industry and the tools to communicate effectively within it.

Blogging the game report was one of my favorite parts of the class. Watching a game, analyzing it, and then reporting on it gave me the chance to fully engage with the sport from a new perspective. Researching and finding “game highlights” on different platforms helped me learn how to identify key moments and present them in a way that captures the reader’s attention. This assignment sparked creativity in all of us, as it challenged us to think about how to structure a blog, develop a unique voice, and bring the game to life through our writing. It was a fun and valuable way to connect the classroom with real-world sports communication.

Even though I did not get the chance to participate in the pen pal experience, I still made an effort to reach out to professional athletes and former athletes. While my attempts did not lead to any direct connections, the process itself taught me the value of taking initiative and stepping outside of my comfort zone. Watching other students successfully connect with their pen pals and reading their blog posts gave me a new perspective- it showed me how meaningful it can be to build relationships with people in the industry. It also reinforced the importance of networking and communication in the world of sports.