Sportscaster John Moore is best known for coverage of Halifax Mooseheads hockey games. His sports broadcasting operation, Sports and Moore Inc., also provides lively pre-and post-game entertainment associated with hockey and other major sport events of interest to local listeners. (TED PRITCHARD / Staff)

HUNDREDS of custom TV channels and countless Internet sites compete aggressively for viewer and listener attention each moment of every day.

Against this competitive backdrop, live radio coverage of major sporting events remains alive and well in Nova Scotia, courtesy of Halifax-based Sports and Moore Inc.

The sports broadcasting operation is the brainchild of career broadcaster John Moore and is best known for coverage of Halifax Mooseheads hockey games, and for lively pre-and postgame entertainment associated with hockey and other major sport events of interest to local listeners.

"Radio is not the powerhouse it once was, but our success shows there is a future in live broadcasting if you can find the right niche," the sports announcer said while preparing for a season-opening road trip with the Mooseheads.

People in Halifax like to tune in to 92 CJCH Radio for live coverage and insider information when big sporting events, including Moosehead games, are underway.

One recent survey showed people in about one in five homes keep the radio on when these big events are underway to catch commentary from Mr. Moore and colour commentator Chris Tremblay.

"We don't expect everybody listens to an entire three-hour show. They come and go while doing other things. Perhaps they listen before or after a game while driving home or listen to the game if they are working or doing something around the house," said the broadcaster.

Sport broadcasting has undergone radical transformations in recent years to open new markets and opportunities.

Regardless of the format - TV, radio or Internet - the most important thing a would-be broadcaster can bring to the field is a real passion for this exciting line of work, he said.

"You certainly must have a strong knowledge of the game and know when to ask the right questions," he said.

WHAT THEY DO
Announcers read news, sports, commercials and weather for radio and television. They may develop their own material or use material prepared by others and may also host entertainment and information programs for broadcast.

Hosts of radio or television programs introduce and interview guests and conduct proceedings of programs such as talk shows and game shows.

WHO WORKS IN THIS FIELD?
To work in these fields, you must be comfortable expressing ideas and performing before an audience. Creativity and imagination are helpful. Clear speech is very important.

The average age in this occupation is approximately 37, slightly below the average age for all occupations in Nova Scotia. Seventy-six per cent are male. Thirty-two per cent of sports announcers have a high school diploma and 26 per cent have a non-university certificate or diploma.

WHERE DO THEY WORK?
Annapolis Valley 8 per cent
Cape Breton 15 per cent
Halifax 52 per cent
North Shore 10 per cent
Southern N.S. 5 per cent

WHAT ARE THE WORK PROSPECTS?
This is a relatively small occupational group in Nova Scotia. Demand for these occupations relies largely on the strength of Nova Scotia's broadcasting and communications sector, which is expected to remain stable.

Outlook: Fair
Employment in 2005: 160
Estimated average annual number of job openings for new sports announcers: 4
Earnings in 2005: averaged $13.75 hourly, with a maximum of $26.25

WHAT TRAINING IS REQUIRED?
Completion of a college radio or television arts program is usually required, as well as practical training such as working at a college radio station or local cable television company.

TYPICAL JOBS:
News reader, radio host, TV host, announcer

For information, or to explore over 300 other careers in Nova Scotia, visit the Education Department's Career Options website: novascotiacareeroptions.ca

On the Job is a weekly feature looking at career opportunities in Nova Scotia. Past columns are archived at www.jobspress.com