Cleveland Launches New Summer Camp for Future Sports Broadcasters

This July, a fresh summer program opens in Cleveland, inviting kids aged ten to nineteen to dive into the world of sports announcing. The camp runs Monday through Friday, July 20‑24, at John Carroll University, a site chosen for its state‑of‑the‑art studio and strong local broadcasting ties. It is the first time the long‑running Sports Broadcasting Camp, known for its New Jersey roots and alumni who now work at major networks, will host an event in the Midwest. A key driver behind this expansion is John Fanta, a native of Northeast Ohio who now calls college basketball games for NBC Sports. After years at Fox and recently gearing up to cover his first NBA match, Fanta brings real‑world experience to the program. He explains that each year he visits the camp as a speaker, encouraging kids to seize every opportunity and work hard. “Take any job, ” he says, “and give it your all. ” His enthusiasm has sparked the idea to bring the camp home.The curriculum covers everything from on‑camera techniques and play‑by‑play narration to radio sports talk, teleprompter use, pregame hosting, interview skills and podcasting. Campers will also learn the roles of production staff, beat reporters and statisticians through hands‑on sessions. Local experts—including radio personalities Ken Carmen and Anthony Lima, as well as WKYC’s Nick Camino—will share insider tips. National broadcasters will appear via video link, offering a broader perspective. A highlight of the week is a field trip to Progressive Field for a live Guardians game. Participants will meet media professionals, tour the stadium and observe how broadcasts are prepared in real time. Fanta emphasizes that fun is as important as learning: “I want kids to enjoy the camp while discovering what it takes to be on air. ” His own journey from a 12‑year‑old call‑in participant at local stations to a professional voice underscores the program’s mission. The camp costs $765, covering all materials and activities. Organizers hope to make Cleveland the new hub for aspiring broadcasters, giving back to a community that shaped Fanta’s early love of sports. By offering these resources locally, they aim to nurture the next generation of voices that Cleveland can proudly support.