Commentators: What makes a good one?

[13VanDerBale13]

 

[rossdapep]

Don't be ignorant when talking about players not in the PL and limit your knowledge to just english football

Often english commentators do sound like a douche when talking about players that aren't playing for a big club

Watching football has become so easy now, the least you could do is watch some foreign matches on tv

I heard commentators talk about Greizmann being a nobody before he signed for Atletico, not to mention they talk about players being great if they sign and go on a decent run, instantly acting like that player is world class like Pelle

As @tobi said the la liga commentators are very good

I do spend a lot of time watching football from all different leagues, I'm currently living in Brazil so the Serie A and State Championships is something I'm paying close attention to. I think that when you are more aware of a players attributes or history before a commentator is not good on their part, especially Griezmann, who has been coveted as one of Europe's finest young prospects for more than a couple of years now.

 

[SpursManChris]

Ahh this is handy, nice to hear what peoples gripes are and what they think makes a better commentator. Although I'm not sure I'd visit if I make it, surely be a target for stern criticism.

Really interesting interview with Steve Banyard also, quite a few guys get into broadcasting like Steve via hospital radio. I always enjoyed his commentary actually, as I too have lived abroad for the last 3 years and had to rely on watching games via Fox Sports or ESPN. I'm going to try and find out what happened to him. Appreciate the tips and resources!

No you wouldn't go near the place if you were an active commentator, it could be crushing, although Steve shouldn't have too much of an issue if he went in there, I've read nothing but good things. It is strange that he's no longer on the PLP roster, although I'm sure that it's not because he got the flick. How would you find out?

 

[rossdapep]

No you wouldn't go near the place if you were an active commentator, it could be crushing, although Steve shouldn't have too much of an issue if he went in there, I've read nothing but good things. It is strange that he's no longer on the PLP roster, although I'm sure that it's not because he got the flick. How would you find out?

Not sure, but there must be a way. I hope he's okay and still active in some capacity. There is some very average guys out there. Was watching some commentary the other day, and the guy couldn't keep up, didn't know the players names and was stuttering his way through. Sounded like he had just been thrown in there.

 

[SpursManChris]

There is some very average guys out there. Was watching some commentary the other day, and the guy couldn't keep up, didn't know the players names and was stuttering his way through. Sounded like he had just been thrown in there.

For PLP?

 

[rossdapep]

For PLP?

No I think it was for Football League. Actually it was on one of the Brentford highlight reels in the Alex Pritchard thread

 

[rossdapep]

No you wouldn't go near the place if you were an active commentator, it could be crushing, although Steve shouldn't have too much of an issue if he went in there, I've read nothing but good things. It is strange that he's no longer on the PLP roster, although I'm sure that it's not because he got the flick. How would you find out?

Just read that Steve is also a songwriter and performed in a concert compered by Brian Blessed!

 

[SpursManChris]

Just read that Steve is also a songwriter and performed in a concert compered by Brian Blessed!

lol, WTF? where did you read that?

 

[rossdapep]

lol, WTF? where did you read that?

Read it on his Wiki, so researched further http://radaris.com/p/Steve/Banyard/

 

[SpursManChris]

Read it on his Wiki, so researched further http://radaris.com/p/Steve/Banyard/

very strange if that's what he's moved onto.

 

[pffft]

Things that make a good commentator: impartiality, knowledge (and thorough research) without foisting it on the listener when it doesn't suit, and a voice that doesn't make you want to stab yourself in the eye.

 

[daveduvet]

My ambition is to become a highly respected commentator, so I wanted to get an idea of what people think makes a commentator stand out?

Obviously making sure facts are presented accurately and helping to create a script are important, as to is knowing when to keep your mouth shut (really dislike commentators who don't know when to stop talking).

There seems to be a wave of generic commentators breaking through who continually use football cliches, I'm hoping to be different.

So, I was hoping you guys and gals could explain what you detest or like about commentary.

Personally, my favourite commentator was Barry Davies, really enjoyed his style and voice.

Barry Davies is a one off. Wholeheartedly agree with you. ANY sport he covered he gave an impression of knowing all and loving what he did. The fact he no longer covers football for the bbc is incomprehensible. He pisses on Motson: Mr clicheé