Here is your opportunity to become a football commentator!
Pompey’s audio description commentary service is looking for new volunteers to join the team for the 2018/19 season.
What is audio description commentary?
The club service was set up thanks to the Pompey DSA at the beginning of the 2015/16 season to aid visually impaired fans, supporters with restricted views or those who want to add to their matchday experience with immediate live action commentary.
The AD team are trained to provide up-to-the-second reports on the match, focusing on the action rather than opinions or transfer stories. As things happen on the pitch the listener hears exactly what is going on, with as much detail as possible to help create the action in the listener’s mind.
So how does it work?
The commentary team work in the press box at the back of the South Stand, where the radio transmitter is set up. Headset microphones are used to commentate live on the game. Commentary is transmitted immediately to handsets and earphones given out to listeners on matchdays. There is no delay from transmission to listeners as with ‘live’ local radio.
What’s in it for me?
You will be doing something truly special on matchdays by helping someone to get the very best matchday experience. Getting this right, delivering the highest quality service and developing live commentary experience will give you a sense of fulfilment and pride. You will get free entry to the ground on matchday, access to the press room and post-match manager press conference, matchday team sheets and a programme. You will rub shoulders with local and national media, as well as some former players in and around the press box. Pompey AD matchday commentary may also be a first step to a new career.
Will I be needed for every single game?
The service provided is for home games only. You will work as part of a small experienced team on a rota basis. You will be expected to be available for most games of all categories at Fratton Park, but as we are all volunteers, we try to be flexible around the team’s needs.
On matchdays you will have to be at the ground by 1.30pm for 3pm kick-offs and 6.30pm for 7.45pm kick-offs to set up the equipment, liaise with potential listeners and finish off your pre-match preparation.
Do I need any experience?
No – this role is open to all. If you have a passion for football and Pompey then we encourage you to apply. The training and selection day is fun and if you get the role, matchdays will have a new dimension. If you are interested apply immediately, but no later than May 21.
How do I apply?
Just tell us why you want to join the AD commentary team, in either no more than 300 words or a 30-second video clip. Send this with your name and contact details to PompeyAD@pompeyfc.co.uk by Monday, May 21.
Please note: applicants should be at least 16 years of age and access to the commentary position in the South Stand requires the ability to climb a significant flight of steps.
If successful you will be invited to the selection day where you will get more information, training and advice. This will be held on Saturday, June 16 between 10am and 3pm in Portsmouth.