What’s it like to report from the sidelines of the world’s most famous football clubs? Rob Dawson, Manchester United and Manchester City correspondent for ESPN, takes us behind the scenes of sports journalism and shares the highs, the hustle, and how to break into the industry.

As part of The Changing Education Group’s Inspire Future Leaders series, Rob offers invaluable advice to students curious about careers in media, writing, and sport.

Who is Rob Dawson, and what does he do?

Rob Dawson is a UK-based journalist working for ESPN, one of the biggest global names in sports media and broadcasting. His role focuses on:

• Live match coverage of Manchester United and Manchester City
• Breaking news stories and writing match reports
• Interviewing players, coaches, and club insiders
• Providing real-time updates and expert commentary

With a front-row seat to some of football’s biggest moments, Rob brings a unique perspective on what it takes to work in top-level journalism.

What is sports journalism, and why does it matter?

Sports journalism is about more than reporting the score. It’s about storytelling, analysis, and access, capturing the emotion, tension, and narrative behind every game, decision, and goal.

As a sports journalist, Rob:

• Travels nationally and internationally for fixtures
• Meets strict deadlines to publish post-match content quickly
• Works evenings, weekends, and unsociable hours to deliver timely coverage
• Builds professional relationships across clubs, media, and press teams

“You have to be prepared to work strange hours and long hours if you want to follow a career in sports journalism.”

– Rob Dawson

His message? It’s competitive, but it’s worth it.

How can students start a career in journalism?

Rob’s path shows that journalism is accessible with the right mix of passion, persistence, and practical experience.

Steps for students interested in sports journalism:

• Start writing: Match reports, blog posts, or opinion pieces, practice makes progress.
• Follow real journalists: Learn from how professionals write, report, and react.
• Build a portfolio: Use school newsletters, local news, or online platforms to showcase your work.
• Study journalism or media: College or university courses provide technical skills and networking opportunities.
• Be ready to hustle: Expect to work late nights, weekends, and under pressure, especially in sport.

Why is Rob’s story important for UK schools?

Rob’s insight is a powerful example of Gatsby Benchmark 5: encounters with employers and employees. His story:

• Helps students understand the reality of media careers
• Connects English, Media Studies, and PE to industry roles
• Shows how transferable skills, like communication and analysis, apply in journalism
• Encourages ambition in a competitive but exciting field

Behind Every Match Report Is a Passionate Storyteller

Rob Dawson’s experience with ESPN shows that journalism is as much about dedication as it is about talent. For students who love sport, storytelling, and staying ahead of the game, it’s a career full of energy and impact.

Want to bring real-world industry insights into your school’s careers programme?
Book a demo to explore how The Changing Education Group connects learners with inspiring professionals like Rob and makes work experience work.

FAQs

Who is Rob Dawson?
Rob is a UK-based journalist and the Manchester United and Manchester City correspondent for ESPN, reporting on top-tier football for a global audience.

What is sports journalism?
It’s a branch of journalism focused on reporting, analysing, and sharing stories from the world of sport, including live match coverage, interviews, and news reporting.

How do you get into sports journalism?
Start writing early, build a portfolio, gain relevant qualifications, and be open to working long hours. Experience, passion, and persistence are key.

Do you need a degree to become a journalist?
Not always, but studying journalism, media, or communications can provide valuable skills, industry knowledge, and connections.

What skills do sports journalists need?
Strong writing, attention to detail, time management, resilience, and a deep understanding of the sport they cover.