Though they may only be briefly heard from during a broadcast, sideline reporters are vital to the success of any televised MLS match
Imagine doing a full week of preparation for a televised soccer match – reading articles, calling sources, interviewing players and coaches, listening to podcasts and attending meetings.
Then, after putting in all that work, getting around two or three minutes of airtime on the broadcast.
Welcome to the life of a sideline reporter, an often thankless job that nevertheless can produce some of a broadcast’s most impactful moments.
Though American viewers may take them for granted, it’s worth noting how rare it is in world soccer to have a television reporter stationed directly between the benches, interacting with players and coaches, and delivering real-time updates during a broadcast.