Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images
Have you always wanted to write about the Mountaineers? Well, now’s your chance.
Welcome, By-Godders. How would you like to join the staff here at The Smoking Musket? As football season closes in on us, we are in need of a couple new faces to help take our coverage of everything West Virginia University to a new level. Ideally, I’d like to have these positions filled as soon as possible, so please don’t let this opportunity pass you by.
Compensation: This is the probably the first question everyone will want to ask, and I totally understand. These positions are unpaid. I started out as a contributor just over a year ago, and I know firsthand that it isn’t ideal to not get paid for your time, but I assure you that being part of The Smoking Musket and SB Nation can provide you with a great opportunity to get your foot in the door of the sports media world.
If you would like to receive academic credit for your work at The Smoking Musket, I would be more than happy to fill out any paperwork you would need to make that work.
Duties: We are looking for writers who can meet deadlines, write clean copy and help us grow our coverage of all things West Virginia University. Ideally, I would love to have someone to help us strengthen our coverage of Mountaineers that have moved on to the professional ranks, have a finger on the pulse of West Virginia football recruiting, and help out with breaking news-type articles when the need arises.
Scheduling is flexible, but since the sports world never stops giving us content some weekend availability is preferred. Ideally, you’ll write at least twice a week on average. Possible assignments can range from game previews and recaps, player profiles, or even your own weekly feature.
Background qualifications: Ideal candidates for this position should:
- Have knowledge of and passion for the West Virginia Mountaineers as well as experience writing and covering college sports.
- A proven ability working in a deadline-driven virtual environment.
- Be able to write in line with and adhere to SB Nation’s best practices.
- Experience with recruiting coverage is a plus.
Don’t be afraid to apply just because you don’t have a killer resume. I got my start with very little to work with, and I know what it was like wanting to be a part of this world but afraid to apply. Don’t be. The main thing we are looking for are people who can write and want to write about West Virginia University.
Apply: If you’re interested, send an email to mikemillersbn@gmail.com with a resume and links to a couple writing samples.