By: Gabby Antonelli
Written: February 20, 2022
What is AIPS and why is it important?
The International Sports Press Association (AIPS) is a professional body that was set up to represent international sports media. After the creation of the organization in 1924, AIPS now proudly boasts 9,500 members worldwide. The organization was established in Paris by Frantz Reichel and Victor Boin, and now is recognized by the International Olympic Committee and the main Federations of each sport and country. This independent organization is funded through generous donations from its existing members as well as the contributions of international bodies and Federations worldwide.
AIPS strives for the best and is so crucial to the world for sports journalism because,
“the aim of AIPS is to enhance the cooperation between its member associations in defending sport and the professional interest of members, to strengthen the friendship, solidarity and common interests between sports journalists of all nations and to assure the best possible working conditions for members.”
The organizations wants the best for athletes, writers, and all members of the community alike.
Is AIPS a Discourse Community?
Like many other discourse community, AIPS is a forum for writers, athletes, and lovers of sports alike, to read, write, and discuss any topic regarding the world of sports. John Swales described a discourse community as, “groups that have goals and purposes, and use communication to achieve their goals,” and the community of AIPS would definitely fit this description.
What can becoming a member do for me?
Stepping into the door of the sports writing world as a young journalist is an extremely daunting task. Most writers don’t know where to begin when it comes to landing their first position or an article on their favorite athlete of the moment. Particularly for the world of AIPS, becoming a member allows you a press card. This card gets its procurer into different events as well as interviews with athletes that may be harder to reach.
Becoming an active member of any type of sports journalism community or organization can aid in finding different programs, jobs, and societies to further a new career. These different communities will help in connecting with other writers that may cover similar sports and athletes, as well as allow young sports writers to experience working in the field before settling down to their first job.
Connections, Connections, Connections…
One of the main focuses I have come across while researching sports journalism and its communities is the importance of connections. Many young writers find that the connections that they make during their first internship or in the first sports writing program they attend are the connections that help to launch their career. Knowing people who know people is an important aspect of getting ahead in this particular job field. Forming close relationships with superiors and co-workers has proven to be very beneficial for many writers.