SidelineSRB has turned TEN! This is a reflection of what an actual decade in the digital media looks like. Yes, I’m still giddy when I get to a venue and I love filming loud crowds that share our common passion for the game.
When I was a young girl, the idea of becoming a sports journalist had already taken shape in my mind. It was the most fascinating job I could possibly imagine, and the digital landscape seemed infinite.
Sport is one of the elements that makes the entire world stop over a match, and I wanted to be a part of that. What I didn’t know was how strong I’d have to become in order to pursue this career.
Ten years into my life in the digital media, I’m proud of the work I’ve done and the skills I’ve developed. Grateful for the opportunities to learn and grow, I still love what I do, there can never be a doubt in that.
HOW IT ALL BEGAN
By now, you probably know how all of this started: a summer afternoon in my living room, and a fateful decision to create a sports blog from scratch. Today, I’m at a point of my life and career where I can speak openly about some of the challenges I’ve faced, as well as the support I’ve received.
WHAT THEY DON’T TELL YOUNG WOMEN IN SPORTS MEDIA
Part of it all was the standard grind. Anyone who’s ever tried to succeed at anything knows this. You simply need to do the work. However, the rest came from choosing a field that isn’t exactly known for being welcoming to women. The contemporary, performative support isn’t enough.
Putting a female anchor to read the news while making jokes behind her back… I’ve truly never been told that I: “look better on mute,” but I’ve both read and heard that exact phrase, aimed at many other women in the sports media. Countless times.
While I haven’t been reduced to my appearance throughout my work, I’ve often been informed that my looks are considered a “favorable factor.” I have yet to find a time when that feels like a compliment.
Then there’s an editor who tells a young woman, in the middle of an open space office, that he desperately needs a commentator for a series of matches; but he would never hire a woman for that role. Just like that. Short and glib. Fun fact: that last one happened to me once. I decided to fully leave that space behind. If the roads of the internet cross just right, that very person might be reading this, even though his English is rusty. Just like his morals.
This is why I chose my own space and wonderful colleagues whose values align with mine.
GRATITUDE
Now, this is where I thank all the incredible individuals and organisations who believed in me and continue to support my work. I’m deeply humbled by your appreciation of my craft that allows me to continue doing what I love most.
WHAT KEEPS SIDELINESRB GOING
A reflection on a decade in digital sports media wouldn’t be complete without acknowledging the gold-medal moments: the pyro, the crowds, the noise, the tears…
The pressure of a match that makes you feel like your heart is about to beat out of your chest. All universally understood throughout cultures and continents.
The love and the pride.
Being one of the journalists who gets to preserve all those fascinating stories and share them with the world is a privilege I never take for granted. A truly fun fact is that I still keep all of my accreditations, while loving a front row seat.
My younger self, the one from the beginning of this story would be so excited we get to do this every week. 🙂
IDOLS
When it comes to all the people that’ll come and go through your life, this is a job where you meet your idols. The best part is realizing they truly are who you hoped they’d be.
I know mine are. 🙂
COMMUNITY
Knowing, because you tell me so, that my work has helped raise awareness around women’s sports, and the importance of women within sport itself, has proudly become a part of my mission. That’s one of the unexpected joys in our growing community, and one of the reasons I’m deeply grateful I didn’t abandon my calling. Your encouragement is just as responsible for my longevity in the digital media as my own hard work and stubbornness.
Hvala vam najlepše i najiskrenije! Nastavljamo još jače.
Here’s to the next decade, firmly on our Sideline. 🤍
-J.