Tokyo 2020 Olympics - Rugby

Working the Olympics is a dream assignment for many freelancers in sports broadcasting. Ever since I began my broadcasting career in 2011, it had been a goal of mine to one day be part of the Games. Thanks to a recommendation from local rugby friend Mike Wright, that opportunity finally became a reality.

I was hired by NBC Sports Group as a talent statistician and researcher for the men’s and women’s Rugby Sevens tournaments. My assignment was based out of NBC Sports Group’s headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut, where I arrived several days before competition began to adjust to the time difference and prepare for my role. During the tournament, my schedule consisted of a 3 p.m. call time, a 6 p.m. broadcast start, and shifts that often lasted until 7 a.m. for six consecutive days.

Throughout the matches, I worked closely with both the play-by-play and color commentators, providing statistics, storylines, and player notes to enhance the broadcast. Behind the scenes, I collaborated with a team of Olympic researchers who helped track down information and ensure the talent had everything they needed throughout each event.

Although the experience was demanding, it remains one of the highlights of my career. Rugby was the sport that first introduced me to sports broadcasting, and having the opportunity to work on the sport’s biggest stage at the Olympic Games is something I will always cherish.