For anyone who’s ever dreamed of calling the winning goal in overtime or announcing the final strikeout in a championship game, the College of Sports Media’s Sports Broadcasting Fantasy Camp turns that dream into reality. This immersive experience gives participants the rare opportunity to step behind the mic, take control of a studio, and feel what it’s truly like to be a professional sports broadcaster. Whether you’re a passionate fan, an aspiring commentator, or simply curious about what goes into creating a live broadcast, CSM’s Fantasy Camp offers an unforgettable glimpse into the high-energy world of sports media.
A Real Studio, a Real Broadcast
What makes CSM’s Sports Broadcasting Fantasy Camp truly stand out is its authenticity. Hosted in the College of Sports Media’s professional television and radio studios—the same facilities used by students training for careers in the industry—the camp gives participants access to industry-standard control rooms, cameras, microphones, and editing suites. From the moment you step inside, it’s clear this isn’t just a “simulation” experience; it’s the real deal.
Under the guidance of experienced instructors, participants learn how to call play-by-play commentary, deliver on-air analysis, and even record highlight segments using actual sports footage. You’ll get a feel for the timing, energy, and precision that define great broadcasting. Each group takes turns in front of and behind the camera, rotating through roles such as anchor, color commentator, and producer.
Learning the Art of Play-by-Play
Sports broadcasting is more than just talking about the game—it’s about painting a picture with words. During the Fantasy Camp, participants receive hands-on coaching on how to describe the action clearly and concisely while keeping the energy alive. You’ll learn techniques that professional commentators use, such as pacing, tone, and storytelling.
The CSM instructors many of whom are seasoned broadcasters and producers—offer real-time feedback to help you improve your delivery. You’ll discover how to set the scene, capture emotion, and engage listeners from the first whistle to the final buzzer. It’s an exciting, sometimes nerve-wracking, but always rewarding experience that gives you newfound appreciation for the craft.
Television or Radio: Choose Your Arena
The Fantasy Camp offers both television and radio broadcasting experiences, each with its own unique challenges and rewards. In the television portion, participants get comfortable on camera, reading from a teleprompter, and learning how to use visuals and replays to enhance storytelling. In the radio session, the focus shifts to vocal delivery—creating imagery through sound alone.
For those used to consuming sports through TV, the radio broadcast reveals a completely different skill set. Without visuals to rely on, participants must bring the action to life entirely through their voice. It’s a crash course in creativity and communication.
A Team Effort Behind the Scenes
Sports broadcasting is never a solo act—it’s a team effort. That’s why the CSM Fantasy Camp emphasizes collaboration. Participants work together in production teams, handling everything from audio mixing to camera operation to highlight editing. This behind-the-scenes experience shows how much coordination and timing go into every broadcast.
You’ll get to experience firsthand the controlled chaos of a live show, where directors call camera changes, producers cue replays, and on-air talent stays composed under pressure. The experience builds not only technical skills but also teamwork, leadership, and adaptability—traits that are vital in both broadcasting and everyday life.
Perfect for Fans, Students, and Professionals Alike
The CSM Sports Broadcasting Fantasy Camp attracts a wide range of participants. Some are students exploring potential careers in sports media, while others are professionals looking for a creative outlet. Many attendees are simply sports fans who want to live out their dream of being the voice of their favorite game.
Groups typically range from 8 to 20 people, creating an intimate environment where everyone gets hands-on time at the mic. Sessions run for three to four hours, but the memories last far longer. Participants often leave with a recorded clip of their broadcast, a keepsake that showcases their time as a sports commentator.
Beyond the Camp: Inspiring Future Broadcasters
What makes this program even more special is that it’s part of the College of Sports Media’s broader mission—to train and inspire the next generation of sports broadcasters in Canada. CSM is renowned for its diploma programs that combine classroom learning with real-world studio experience. The Fantasy Camp gives people a taste of that professional environment and often sparks interest in pursuing further training at the college.
Many of CSM’s graduates now appear on major Canadian networks like TSN, Sportsnet, and CBC Sports, proving that this hands-on model truly prepares students for the industry.
The Ultimate Broadcasting Experience
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, organizing a corporate team-building event, or just fulfilling a lifelong dream, CSM’s Sports Broadcasting Fantasy Camp is a one-of-a-kind experience that brings fans closer to the game than ever before. You’ll walk away with a new appreciation for the craft of broadcasting—and maybe even the spark of a new passion.
