September 25 – Former ESPN broadcaster Jason Jackson – the “Voice” of the Miami Heat – took time out from his courtside reporter and TV host role to put FIU athletes in the hot seat and show them how to avoid interview meltdowns. Jackson was invited by FIU Athletics to offer media training to student athletes in conjunction with the Communication Arts Studio, which played host to the event for the second year in a row. Over 32 student athletes participated, representing men and women’s volleyball, softball, basketball, track, soccer and swimming.
Bringing years of experience and the inside knowledge of what the media wants and how journalists and broadcasters try to get it, Jackson helped coach the athletes to their personal presenting best. He discussed ways to actively listen and appropriately respond to questions, avoid verbal traps and speak with conviction. In mock interview scenarios, FIU athletes were recorded as they fielded rapid-fire questions from Jackson. In a post-game process familiar to athletes, they received personal feedback as the tapes were played back and reviewed. By the end of the session, the student athletes were successfully staying on message and promoting their sports, their teams and their school, while showing their personalities and having fun. The CommArts Studio looks forward to hosting Jackson and the FIU athletes again next year.
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