Hi Hob - been there - done that. I started out in advertising, with ad copy, radio-tv copy etc etc etc. Don't try to learn that much about the subject is my humble advice, otherwise you will spend all your time researching. Let the individual tell you about the sport. After all, aren't you supposed to be writing about the individual rather than the sport. Asking questions is not the answer. Permitting the individual to talk will get you the story and it will be more interesting to you and to your readers. After all, you are not there to show your expertise, you are there to write a human interest story. I have found two things that worked (works) for me:
A stock question having nothing to do with the sport. Be observant! Are there photos? Of whom? Ask! Comment! Something unique on display? That will lead to all sorts of information and the questions will be conversation rather than pre written questions. Everybody has something they are very proud of - use that.
A second stock question. As you said, it is trite, but it works because most people like to talk about themselves and that is 'How did you become interested in _____?' If it works, why break the mold?
And if I might make a suggestion - don't rely on notes. Notes are great, but a small tape recorder is much better and will jog your memory.
As for table tennis or regular tennis - What racquet or paddle do you like? Why? What are the differences? Shoes are another good subject. Be a friend - not an interviewer.
Just IMHO
Sah
Welcome to Writers Web, Hobknobb. We are pleased that you have joined our friendly and fun group!
Questions, Uhh? Well, think about what Barbara Walters asks for her interviews. She seems to be able to keep people talking!
What about:
Have you always been athletic?
What sports have you enjoyed participating in?
How long have you been an avid ----------- player?
What is it about the game that keeps you coming back for more?
How many hours a week do you devote to your sport?
Who was your mentor? Who shares your love for the game now?
Have you ever been hurt while playing--------------? What happened?
How do you stay in such good shape? Any special diet, any particular exercise regimen?
What other activities do you enjoy?
Hi Hob - We welcome you to the group and look forward to getting to know you.
You say the articles are for human interest stories , but also stories on senior athletes who participate in our state's Senior Games. I would think what motivated them to become senior athletes is where the story lies - not so much about the sport itself. This is what I would concentrate on. What motivated the person to become a senior athlete, why this particular sport, but then move beyond it. How has this changed the person's life - how has it affected the person's family, etc. This way you really get to the human interest story you seek.
I think this is great and good luck!
Thanks you guys. Great advice from all of you and I will use it. I have published one story so far and that interview was more about letting that person talk (she was a 75 year old cross trainer). That story turned out well so that is a good tactic. I like your questions Caredoe just in case there is a lag in the conversation which can be uncomfortable. Thanks again I look forward to being part of this group.
