What is the Magazine Format in Television Production?
The world of sports television production is a tight-knit community. Nick Smith, a director for the Mountaineer Sports Network (MSN) during the 1970s, 80s, and early 90s, was a pivotal figure in this field, especially for West Virginia University (WVU). He directed the tape-delayed football games and the award-winning “Mountaineer Magazine,” a weekly television show focused on WVU sports. Smith’s influence extended beyond sports, as he also directed and produced educational videos, recruiting materials, training videos, and national TV commercials for WVU.
Smith’s career began in Arkansas and included a stint as a cinematographer during the Vietnam War. After the war, he moved to West Virginia to produce documentaries for WWVU Public Broadcasting. He eventually transitioned to MSN, where his demanding style and dedication to quality became legendary. Smith’s passion for WVU was evident in his work, ensuring his adopted home and university were showcased in the best possible light. He instilled this passion in his team, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.
One of Smith’s key contributions to WVU was mentoring future generations of television professionals. He took Scott Bartlett, a former WVU broadcast student, under his wing, providing him with invaluable experience and guidance. Smith’s “tough love” approach helped Bartlett develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the industry. In 1994, Smith left WVU to start his own business, recommending Bartlett as his successor to direct programs for MSN.
Smith’s legacy extends beyond his direct contributions to WVU. He was instrumental in creating innovative programming formats, including the magazine-style college football coaches’ show, “Mountaineer Magazine.” This format, likely a precursor to many modern sports shows, provided in-depth analysis, player profiles, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the world of WVU football. His forward-thinking approach also led to the first ESPN2 broadcast produced by a regional production crew, further solidifying MSN’s reputation for high-quality television production.
Smith’s commitment to excellence established a foundation for MSN’s continued success. Bartlett, following in Smith’s footsteps, has maintained the high standards set by his mentor, ensuring that WVU and MSN remain respected within the broadcasting community. This commitment to quality has allowed MSN to consistently produce top-notch programming, earning national recognition and respect. The network’s reputation for excellence has opened doors for its staff, including opportunities to direct live events for major networks like ESPN.
The “Mountaineer Magazine” show, a pioneering example of the magazine format in sports television, played a significant role in showcasing WVU to a wider audience. This innovative approach, characterized by its diverse content and in-depth storytelling, helped elevate the program beyond traditional sports broadcasts. Smith’s vision and leadership were instrumental in establishing the show’s unique format and ensuring its lasting impact on the landscape of college sports broadcasting. The success of “Mountaineer Magazine” not only enhanced WVU’s visibility but also paved the way for future generations of sports broadcasters to experiment with new and engaging programming formats.
