Game Announcer

Volunteer as a Game Announcer

The Game Announcer is a high-energy, high-visibility role responsible for delivering real-time, play-by-play commentary during match play at FIRST events, helping to bring the excitement of the competition to life for teams and spectators alike. Working closely with the Emcee, the Game Announcer introduces teams, highlights unique team stories, announces scores and key game moments, and helps maintain the pace and clarity of the event while ensuring the spotlight stays on student participants. 

Game Announcers are comfortable using a microphone in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and must be able to think quickly, communicate clearly, and collaborate closely with other volunteers such as the Emcee, Head Referee, and Scorekeeper. They play a vital part in engaging the audience, enhancing the overall event experience, and upholding the FIRST Core Values. 

This role is ideal for volunteers with a passion for live commentary, a love of robotics, and a desire to elevate student achievements in a fun and inspiring way. 

Minimum Age: Varies by program (see below)

Experience: Either FIRST or related field experience preferred

• FIRST experience strongly preferred; prior announcing or public speaking experience highly encouraged 
• Prior experience as a Game Announcer for a FIRST Program(s) is helpful
• Requires thorough knowledge or ability to learn game and match process 

Training: Some pre-event training required

Role Details / Responsibilities:

• Provide live play-by-play match commentary, maintaining enthusiasm and clarity throughout the event 
• Introduce teams and announce scores and outcomes of matches 
• Work closely with the Emcee to keep the event fun, fair, and team-focused 
• Highlight key moments and unique facts about teams to energize the audience 
• Prepare and rehearse scripts as needed; attend pre-event training and practice sessions 
• Meets on-site with Event Director or Event Management to prepare and rehearse scripts 
• Work closely with the Head Referee and Scorekeeper in announcing scores and penalties
• Game Announcers should understands that their primary role is to highlight the teams and not dilute the focus by being "a performer" and overshadowing the team focus 
• Follow all FIRST guidelines for bias-free communication and professionalism 
• Comfortable using a microphone and addressing a large crowd; vocally energetic 
• Volunteers should focus on the role they are filling at that event. This includes:
  • Helping avoid the appearance of bias by not cheering for one specific team when wearing official event apparel (volunteer shirt or FIRST/Partner staff clothing). Instead, we encourage volunteers to cheer for all teams equally.  
  • Refrain from accessing sensitive event areas unless they are necessary to fulfill your volunteer role for this event. This can include playing field access, scoring table and judging rooms.
  • Wearing volunteer specific apparel (e.g. FTA shirt, Robot Inspector hat, etc) when filling that specific role.

• Must read and comply with the Volunteer Handbook

Reports to: Varies by program (see below)