One angle on the recent layoffs at ESPN isn’t what ESPN did, but what some “sports journalists” are saying/writing in response to the layoffs.
Editor’s preface: It has been all over the sports news: ESPN decided not to renew the contracts of about 100 on-air and digital employees–many of whom are well-known and respected journalists. The non-renewals are in response to bottom-line problems being experienced at the network. ESPN isn’t a boat on its own bottom: it’s owned by Disney/ABC and ESPN has been having trouble balancing its books. Why? There are many reasons. One reason: the network is paying huge rights to air live pro and college games. ESPN felt the need to reduce personnel costs. But one angle on this story isn’t what ESPN did. It’s what some “sports journalists” are saying/writing in response to these layoffs. W. Stirling Wright elaborates.
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Does sports journalism require ethics? At times some writers/commentators cross the line from sports journalist to journalistic clown by using TMZ-style attacks. They trash others for a story. These negativity mongers are quick to jump on the misfortune/mistakes of others.
Dilfer, Kanell, and Werder (left to right) are out at ESPN (photo, NY Daily News)
That’s why the trashing of sports journalists released by ESPN is truly out of order! It includes criticism of those whose contracts were renewed.
There’s a real need to produce a more ethical product. Portraying every interview as the next Hollyfield vs. Mayweather fight is not good journalism. Using a Morton Downey Jr. style by yelling is not good journalism. Asking antagonizing questions is not sports journalism.
These are examples of journalistic bullying. It’s a Reality Show.
Meanwhile, a number of top-notch, former ESPN sports journalists are now seeking employment, people like
@ESPNAndyKatz, @EdwerderRFA, @jaysonst, @DocPunchESPN, @PierreVLeBrun, @MrMomJoeyMac, @OvertimeScottB
George Plimpton (left) at Detroit Lions’ training camp (photo, SI)
“Journalists” who seek to write/talk about others’ misfortunes need to learn a thing or two from George Plimpton. In my opinion Plimpton was one of the greatest sports journalists ever. He bridged the gap between sports and journalism by writing about sports and the people involved.
Plimpton would do what the players did and, in so doing, he conveyed actual experiences. He gave insights into the inner workings of teams, and he always did that work using high standards and ethics.
Plimpton was a cerebral man, a prime example of a sports journalist who conducted his work with passion and ethics.
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“You Deserve What You Settle For!” – Coach W. Stirling Wright
@StirlingWright
