The Commentators’ View: Peter Drury & episcopal eutopia
Feb 28, 2025
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Peter Drury, a celebrated Sky Sports football commentator known for his poetic narration, shares fascinating insights on his journey in broadcasting. He discusses the 'commentator's curse' that he humorously attributes to Manchester United's woes. Engaging in a lively 'Clash of the Commentators' with John Murray, he reflects on the artistry of commentary while navigating the balance between emotion and objectivity. The duo also clarifies the intriguing criteria of their 'Great Glossary,' showcasing the rich language tied to football.
Peter Drury shares his journey into sports commentary, highlighting the importance of early experiences and the support of colleagues.
The emotional connection of commentary is shaped by legendary figures like Brian Butler, whose styles inspire aspiring commentators.
The 'commentator's curse' presents challenges that necessitate careful language choices to avoid jinxing teams during critical moments.
Deep dives
The Role of a Commentator
Commentators play a crucial role in bringing the excitement of sports to fans, encapsulating the atmosphere and energy of a match. They provide not just play-by-play updates but emotional context, giving listeners a deeper connection to the game. The camaraderie between commentators, even those from rival networks, often fosters a supportive environment where they share insights and experiences. This dynamic highlights the unique culture within sports broadcasting, which thrives on collaboration and respect among colleagues.
Transitioning into Commentating
The journey into sports commentary often begins in local broadcasting, where aspiring commentators develop their skills in a more intimate setting before moving to larger platforms. Commentators recount their early experiences, often fraught with nerves, as they navigate their first major assignments. Establishing a rapport with colleagues during these formative years greatly influences their confidence and performance in future broadcasts. Additionally, memorable moments, such as the first match covered alongside a renowned commentator, become cherished milestones in their careers.
Influences and Inspirations
Many commentators reflect on the figures who inspired them in their youth, often citing legendary commentators whose distinctive styles left a lasting impression. The commentary of Brian Butler and Peter Jones is frequently mentioned as a gold standard in the craft, characterized by their ability to evoke strong emotions. Their unique vocal styles and masterful storytelling set benchmarks for aspiring commentators, enabling them to appreciate the art of effective delivery. The nuances of language and the power of descriptive commentary resonate deeply with those who seek to emulate these iconic figures.
The Challenges of Live Commentary
Live commentary presents challenges, including the infamous 'commentator's curse,' where a commentator's optimistic remarks can lead to unforeseen outcomes in the game. This superstitious notion prompts commentators to cautiously navigate their phrasing, particularly in high-stakes situations. They often reflect on experiences where their commentary coincided with unexpected game turns, highlighting the pressure of accuracy and perception. The balancing act between providing engaging commentary and avoiding jinxing a team requires a deft touch and awareness of audience sentiment.
The Language of Commentary
The vocabulary used in commentary often crosses over various contexts, creating unique phrases that resonate with sporting moments. Terms like 'loitering with intent' and 'straight off the training ground' encapsulate specific scenarios that arise during games, enriching the viewer's experience. However, the appropriateness of certain phrases is debated, particularly when borrowed from non-sporting contexts. This ongoing discussion highlights the evolution of sports commentary language, as commentators strive to maintain originality while drawing from a rich tapestry of expressions.
Peter Drury goes behind the microphone with John Murray and Alistair Bruce-Ball. He talks through his early days as a 5 Live football commentator, his relationship with words and how he thinks he may have put the commentator’s curse on Manchester United! Also Peter goes head-to-head with John Murray in a heavyweight Clash of the Commentators. And clarification on the Great Glossary criteria!
03:45 Peter’s route into the industry
05:50 Peter’s first radio commentary
11:30 Peter’s broadcasting inspirations
17:45 Peter ‘showing off’ on Sports Report
20:05 ‘Words have been my best friend and my worst enemy’
22:25 What is the best ‘Commentators’ View’ in sport?
27:00 Guilty examples of the ‘commentator’s curse’
32:20 Heavyweight ‘Clash of the Commentators’
43:45 The ‘Great Glossary’ rules are ironed out
BBC Sounds / 5 Live FA Cup commentaries this weekend:
Fri 28 Feb 2000 Aston Villa v Cardiff,
Sat 1 Mar 1215 Crystal Palace v Millwall,
Sat 1 Mar 1215 Preston v Burnley on BBC Sport website,
Sat 1 Mar 1500 Bournemouth v Wolves,
Sat 1 Mar 1745 Man City v Plymouth,
Sun 2 Mar 1345 Newcastle v Brighton,
Mon 3 Mar 1930 Nottingham Forest v Ipswich.
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