Our day at the Widzew stadium began with a meeting with President Michał Rydz, who personally got involved in the organisation of the event. President Rydz, a graduate of journalism at the University of Lodz, provided us with content-related support and showed us around the stadium, explaining how individual activities are carried out on match day. We visited the conference room, honorary boxes, security rooms, stands and even the pitch. As a welcome gift, each of us received a club scarf and a brochure with information about the organisation of the broadcast and the course of the match day.
A conversation with Krzysztof Zimoch, who introduced us to the role and importance of club media in contemporary sports was the next item on the agenda. In the club's media studio, he talked about creating radio and television broadcasts that are of key importance to the image of football clubs, which today rely largely on their own media. Then, President Rydz presented the basics of managing a sports club in an accessible way, drawing attention to the differences between sports management and management in other industries. His tips on a career in sports journalism were extremely valuable to all the participants.
TVP commentators, i.e. Maciej Iwański and Robert Podoliński also joined the group. They shared their experience with us and told us about the behind-the-scenes work of a journalist and a sports commentator. We went to the stands to watch the match between Widzew Łódź and Górnik Zabrze equipped with their knowledge and inspiration. This time, the fans of the Łódź club had to accept a 0:2 defeat.
After the match, we had the opportunity to participate in press conferences of the coaches and players, which was an excellent opportunity to learn how such events are prepared from an organisational perspective.
To sum up, these workshops were not only an opportunity for us to delve into the subject of sports club management and match day organisation, but also a great lesson in professional sports journalism. The openness and family atmosphere at the Widzew stadium made us feel like a part of the club. It was a valuable and inspiring experience that will certainly stay in our memories for a long time.
Text and photos: Students from the Student Science Club for Sports Journalism, University of Lodz
Edit: Communications and PR Centre, University of Lodz