Ceredigion’s Young Reporters Sports Scheme: Behind the Mic
24 football fans gathered at Aberystwyth Arts Centre on Thursday 19 September to enjoy a Welsh-medium workshop called 'Behind the Meic' with professional football commentator Mei Emrys.
The evening was organised by Cered: Menter Iaith Ceredigion and Cymru Sport as part of their Young Reporters Sports Scheme following a generous sponsorship from Aberystwyth Town Council. Over the past two football seasons this successful scheme has given two groups of local young people the opportunity to commentate Aberystwyth Town FC football matches.
During the workshop, Mei shared how he started his commentating career and showed how he prepares his notes for a game and discussed how to communicate effectively with the audience. At the end of his presentation attendees had the opportunity to commentate on some of Wales' most memorable goals in recent years such as Hal Robson Kanu's famous one against Belgium at the Euros in 2016.
Rhodri Francis, Cered Development Officer said: “With so many of Ceredigion’s young people going to university and on to a career in media, this scheme enables young people to gain experience on their doorstep and through the medium of Welsh. At the end of the term, as some move to university across Wales and beyond the scheme also offers a way to keep young people connected to Ceredigion by being guests on the station's podcasts and commentating Aberystwyth's away games.”
Mei Emrys said: "It was really nice to see so many, mostly young people in attendance and their obvious enthusiasm reflected the great interest that exists in broadcasting sport through the medium of Welsh. Hearing the fantastic contributions of those who took part, it is certain that the future of football commentary and correspondence in Wales is in safe hands."
Jake, one of the attendees, said: "Thank you to Cered for organising the event. It was very interesting to learn about an internal process of football commentary, particularly in the Welsh language. It has increased my interest and inspired me to start commenting. Thank you Mei for your time."
If you are interested in giving football commentating a go as part of Ceredigion’s Young Reporters Sports Scheme during this season, contact Cered by emailing cered@ceredigion.gov.uk.