PREPARING YOUR NOTES

Team Overview:

  • A list of players from both teams (including jersey numbers) on an easy-to-read card.
  • Brief notes on key players (e.g., “dangerous on free throws” or “weak on three-pointers”).

Game Flow Structure:

  • Space for live notes during the match, such as goals, fouls, or standout plays.
  • Tables or charts for quick access to data like possession stats or shots on goal.

Current Developments:

  • Injury updates, transfers, form trends of individual players.

Head-to-Head Matchups:

  • Results from previous encounters, rivalries, key moments.

Interesting Facts:

  • Anecdotes, personal stories, or fun facts to entertain the audience.

Emotional Moments:

  • Pre-written phrases or ideas for key events like goals, records, or dramatic twists.

Critical Situations:

  • Information about rules or specific scenarios (e.g., VAR decisions, overtime).

Fallback Material:

  • Topics to cover when the game slows down (e.g., statistics, trivia).

Clear Layout of Notes:

  • Use colors, symbols, or highlights to emphasize key points.
  • Utilize bullet points and a clear structure for quick navigation.

Digital or Analog:

  • A tablet or laptop with a digital database (Excel, Notion) for real-time updates.
  • Alternatively, handwritten notes on index cards for flexibility.

Stadium and Weather (especially for outdoor disciplines like archery):

  • Information about the venue, crowd size, weather conditions.

Game Chronology:

  • Record key events in order for easy reference during the match.

Spontaneous Additions:

  • Add new information that becomes relevant during the game.

Practice:

  • Rehearse potential scenarios and your commentary style.

Mental Focus:

  • Prepare yourself to stay calm and composed during high-pressure moments.