Sports Communication Students Get an Insider's Experience at AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh and PNC Park Wednesday, September 21, 2022

AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh recently welcomed Point Park's sports communication students to its facilities on the North Shore to watch a pre-game broadcast before the St. Louis Cardinals versus Pittsburgh Pirates game at PNC Park. 

"I am unbelievably grateful for the opportunity provided to our sports communication students," said Bernie Ankney, Ph.D., dean of the School of Communication. "Our students left PNC Park feeling like they are getting a first-rate sports communication education, and they are excited for future internship opportunities at AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh." 

"Seeing how shows get produced and broadcasted gives you a greater appreciation for what goes into each show," said Jacob Kubick, a senior sports communication major from Seton LaSalle High School. "The preparation, execution and teamwork all need to be on point for the show to succeed, and it seems as if it does every night."

During the insider's experience, students checked out the control room, broadcast studio and networked with staff and on-air talent. 

"It was surreal to be on the set of the Pirates pre-game show," said Joey Bova, a senior sports communication major from Bethel Park High School. "I plan to use what I learned on our U-View shows at Point Park." 

"I learned how a control room and TV studio operate on a professional level, which will help me as a host for U-View's Pioneer Sideline show," said Natalea Hillen, a senior broadcasting major from Peters Township High School. "As a journalist, I took advantage of asking the professionals questions about the equipment and studio." 

Following the tour, students watched the game in a suite at PNC Park. 

 "I chose Point Park's sports communication program because of how truly connected the school is with the city's sports teams," said James Hodgetts, a senior sports communication major from West Mifflin Area High School. "I believe having good connections is essential into building your resume and looking for future employers." 

Added Kubick: "Point Park's sports communication program is a marriage between media and sports, and the opportunities are endless."

More About: Seton-La Salle High School, Pittsburgh Pirates, West Mifflin Area High School, U-View, Bethel Park Senior High School, Downtown Pittsburgh, Peters Township High School, student trips, School of Communication, sports communication, broadcast reporting