It seems the more I watch sports the more I see former Hall of Fame, All-Star, and World Champion professional athletes donning a suit in front of the camera during a sports TV broadcast. Though, sports broadcasting is an attractive and potentially lucrative career following a pro sports career, not all are suited for a life in front of the camera. Many have tried but only a select few succeed.
Case in point surfaced from a recent article about a former NFL quarterback, now CBS-analyst, who shared his ignorance of the professional game he played for 17 seasons. It all stemmed during a broadcast of the Bengals/Brown game with seven seconds remaining in overtime and the Bengals calling a timeout to set-up for a field goal. Former NFL quarterback, now color commentator Rich Gannon, publicly criticized Coach Marvin Lewis over the air, stating the timeout would allow enough time for a "Hail Mary" type play by the Browns, even if the field goal was made. It took Gannon's TV partner, Ian Eagle, to politely correct the 17 year NFL veteran and explain the game would be over if the field goal was made.
Honest mistake, sure...but not one you'd like your 17 year NFL veteran to make on TV.
Certainly, many former athletes have fared well in the TV limelight following their pro career. Terry Bradshaw-NFL, Howie Long-NFL, Charles Barkley-NBA, Greg Kelser-NBA, Mickey Redmond-NHL, Larry Murphy-NHL, and the list of successes goes on. Many people do not realize how much effort, time, and work it took to fill these elite TV seats in the press box or sideline. Most of these guys have been honing their skills for years before making it prime time.
Regardless, not everyone is suited to be in front of the camera as much as not everyone should be making a sales pitch in front of a packed board room. Each former athlete must find their niche' following their pro sports careers. To some this new role may be obvious and to others it might as well be Greek.
For those speaking Greek, please do not get in front of a TV camera just because you've played the game. Learn the language, learn the trade, and most importantly...learn the rules of the game before you open your mouth.
You can find out more about me, my book, my TV show, and my services at: www.fromglorydays.com
