Breaking the Mold: A Content Analysis of ESPN’s Written and Broadcast Coverage of the 2023 Women’s College World Series

Abstract

This project investigates whether the 2023 Womenʼs College World Series media coverage exhibits gender biases in its softball coverage similar to those researchers have found in coverage of other womenʼs sports: sexualization, stereotyping, and downplaying importance, among many others. Specifically, it compares ESPN's coverage of the Womenʼs College World Series to its male counterpart: the College World Series baseball championship. Through a comparative content analysis of live game broadcasts and written articles during the championship series, the research found that some elements of softball broadcasts had higher production values than baseball broadcasts, with more creative elements such as graphics, music, player segments, and replays. Comparatively, baseball broadcasters used more action-packed language and had more excitement in their delivery and utilized more creative elements. The results suggest that womenʼs sports coverage is improving, although there is still room for improvement.