Sports Media Trainee Programme FAQ
What is the Sports Media Trainee Programme?
The Sports Media Trainee Programme (SMTP) has been running since 2012 and is designed to give young journalists and photographers the opportunity to gain invaluable, hands-on media experience at international curling events working on the Media Team. Their experience gained through the programme will help them progress prospective careers within the media industry.
Trainee journalists interview athletes, write features, create content for social media and report on the competition, while photographers are tasked with capturing, editing and distributing images of all of the action on the ice and behind the scenes.
The work of the trainee journalists and photographers is published on the World Curling Federation website and social media channels. The trainees are also encouraged to try to get their content picked up by mainstream news outlets and to provide content for competing Member Associations.
Who is eligible to apply for the programme?
Entries are taken from those who are between 18-35 years old (by the application deadline) and have a passion for sport and a keen interest in writing or photography. Applicants do not need to be enrolled in formal education in order to be eligible for the programme.
When is the next deadline?
Sunday 19 February 2023 at 5 pm (GMT).
How do I apply?
Photographers must submit a portfolio of ten sports images.
Writers must submit a 500-word essay about the following topic:
- Their favorite athlete or moment in sport and how it has influenced their life.
Submit your application by filling in this form.
What is covered for the trainees during their traineeship period?
The World Curling Federation cover all travel, accommodation and incidental expenses.
What is it like being involved in the programme?
Former trainees were tasked to write a blog during the event they were covering. Read their blog entries here.
What have trainees gone on to do after the programme?
The majority of the former trainees now have a career in sports media, and have gone onto work at international federations, national sport governing bodies and at the Olympic Games.
