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Sports Writer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

While the biggest games remain important, the Ocala area is growing and has a diverse sports ... Strong writing, spelling and grammar skills; familiarity with AP style. * Ability to work some ...

While the biggest games remain important, the Ocala area is growing and has a diverse sports ... Strong writing, spelling and grammar skills; familiarity with AP style. * Ability to work some ...

This role involves creating diverse and engaging sports activities, managing group dynamics ... Must excel in both written and verbal communication. * Excellent Interpersonal skills, ability to ...

While the biggest games remain important, the Ocala area is growing and has a diverse sports ... Strong writing, spelling and grammar skills; familiarity with AP style. * Ability to work some ...

Court Sports Professional

Fort Myers, FL

$70K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Court sports include Tennis, Pickleball and Bocce Ball. As an associate of Troon , you will contribute to a global leader in racquet sports and community management. Position Summary: Provide the ...

Court Sports Professional

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Court sports include Tennis, Pickleball and Bocce Ball. As an associate of Troon , you will contribute to a global leader in racquet sports and community management. Position Summary: Provide the ...

A Lead Data Writer for Catena Media is primarily a data-driven writer for their assigned sites, with a core focus on data reporting for the gambling and sports betting industry, such as revenue data ...

A Lead Data Writer for Catena Media is primarily a data-driven writer for their assigned sites, with a core focus on data reporting for the gambling and sports betting industry, such as revenue data ...

Write sports stories, recaps, and related content for publication * Assist with social media updates during live events as needed Learning Opportunities * Gain hands-on experience in live sports ...

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Showing results 1-20

Sports Writer information

See Florida salary details

$4

$30

$76

How much do sports writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for sports writer in Florida is $30.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.59 and $49.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Sports Writer vs Sports Journalist?

AspectSports WriterSports Journalist
CredentialsTypically a degree in journalism, communications, or related fieldSimilar credentials, often with additional reporting or media training
Work EnvironmentNewspapers, magazines, online media, freelanceBroadcast media, online outlets, print publications
Industry UsageUsed interchangeably in many contexts, but Sports Journalist often implies reporting and on-camera workBroader role including reporting, interviewing, and multimedia content

While both roles involve covering sports topics, a Sports Writer primarily focuses on creating written content such as articles and features. A Sports Journalist may engage in reporting, interviewing, and multimedia storytelling, often in broadcast or digital formats. The roles overlap significantly, but Sports Journalists typically have a broader scope of media skills and on-camera presence.

Are sports writers in demand?

Sports writers are in demand in media outlets, online platforms, and sports organizations, especially those with strong writing skills and knowledge of sports. Employment opportunities can vary based on the industry’s digital shift and regional media needs, but competition remains high for traditional print roles. Freelance and digital content creation are growing areas for sports writers seeking work.

How much do sports writers get paid?

Sports writers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and the size of the media outlet, but the median annual wage in the United States is around $45,000 to $60,000. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while experienced writers or those working for major publications can earn over $80,000 annually. Many sports writers also supplement income through freelance work or digital media platforms.

What are some typical challenges sports writers face when covering live events?

Sports writers often face tight deadlines and rapidly changing circumstances when covering live events. They must quickly process and analyze the action, conduct interviews with athletes or coaches in high-pressure environments, and produce accurate, engaging content on short notice. Balancing objectivity while delivering compelling storytelling, as well as managing logistics like travel and access to press areas, are common challenges in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sports writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sports Writer, you need excellent writing, research, and storytelling abilities, typically supported by a degree in journalism, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with content management systems, social media platforms, and digital editing tools is often required. Strong interviewing skills, adaptability, and the ability to work under tight deadlines help distinguish successful sports writers. These skills ensure accurate, engaging, and timely coverage that resonates with audiences and keeps them informed.

How do I get into sports writing?

To become a sports writer, develop strong writing skills, gain knowledge of sports through education or experience, and build a portfolio of published work. Internships, freelance assignments, and networking with media outlets can help you gain entry into the field. Familiarity with media tools like AP style and social media is also beneficial.

What is a sports writer?

A Sports Writer creates articles or copy content about sports events for digital and print media publications. As a Sports Writer, your main responsibility is researching athletes, teams, and their stories. You may also attend press conferences, games, or other events held by sports organizations. Sports Writers may only write about specific sports, but it is not unusual for one to cover the entire industry for a smaller outlet. As news outlets now rely heavily on freelance writers, you may not work for a specific publication at all. While your exact duties may differ depending on the position, your job is to write compelling news stories that will inform and engage your readers and draw them to your employer’s publication.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sports Writer jobs in Florida? The most popular types of Sports Writer jobs in Florida are:
What are popular job titles related to Sports Writer jobs in Florida? For Sports Writer jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Sports Writer jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Sports Writer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Sports Writer jobs in FL? For Sports Writer jobs in FL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Sports Writer job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,021 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

Sports Reporter, Ocala FL

gannett

Ocala, FL

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Gannett rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 76 rated media


Job description

The Ocala Star Banner, part of the USA TODAY Network, is seeking a versatile and curious reporter to join our sports team and create stories and visual content that captures the high school sports scene in and around Ocala, Florida. 

While the biggest games remain important, the Ocala area is growing and has a diverse sports interest. A new high school is opening in the fall of 2026, the city holds one of Florida’s biggest holiday high school basketball tournaments and, with a Summer Olympics two years away, an interest in equestrian sports will return for our readers and beyond.  

Breaking news, well-sourced enterprise, updates on teams and athletes – you'll have to do it all in words, and in visuals that fit your eye on social media. 

In the heart of Central Florida, Ocala offers a blend of small-town charm and growing economic opportunity. Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Ocala is home to a large equestrian scene and combines a relaxed, affordable lifestyle with convenient access to Orlando and Tampa; both are about 90 minutes away. Located at the center of the state, Ocala is also only a two-hour drive from either coastline. 

Responsibilities: 

  • Create storytelling that accurately informs, entertains and engages specific audiences and platforms through the use of metrics.
  • Work toward becoming the community’s leading voice of expertise in high school sports.
  • Connect with the community through storytelling and outreach (social media, on camera, forums, community leadership, etc.). Provide thoughtful analysis of complex issues.
  • Work with editor and content strategist to evaluate what's working and what's not and develop ongoing plans to satisfy audience needs.
  • Collaborate to provide appropriate elements for stories (i.e. photos, videos and graphics). Capture basic photos and video as needed.
  • Promote personal brand, the brands of colleagues and the institutional brand.
  • Provide great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions. 

Requirements: 

  • Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.
  • Bachelor's or master’s degree in communications, journalism or related field preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Previous reporting experiencepreferred; even better if you've covered sports.
  • Proficiency on social media platforms; including but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Reddit.
  • Experience shooting and editing photos and video on a mobile device.
  • Strong communication skills, news judgement and headline-writing ability.
  • AI and automation literacy and experience, and willingness to use it to enhance their journalism.
  • Ability to multitask and excel under intense deadline pressure.
  • Ability to work collaboratively and efficiently.
  • Strong writing, spelling and grammar skills; familiarity with AP style.
  • Ability to work some nights and weekends.
  • Comfort building a beat and communicating with athletes and coaches. 

Application Instructions: 

We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, don’t limit your upload to a resume; show us what you’ve done. To do so, put together a single document file that includes the following, in this order:

  • Your resume – one to two pages.
  • A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.
  • Links to 3-6 online samples of your work. Show us what you’ve produced or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do in your desired role. 

It is important that these items be assembled into a single document and uploaded in PDF format. Completing these steps will ensure that your application receives the highest consideration. 

 #Newsgnt


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