1)      Entertaining talent that know sports but also know how to integrate the real world into their show. Talent must be opportunists taking advantage of external events and stories as well as creating their own content.

2)      Patience is invaluable in Sports Radio. The format is a long-term gold mine not an overnight sensation. It is built on establishing a relationship with the audience. It is people intensive as indicated in point #1. Allowing time to for the station to develop is essential (provided you have to make sure you have the right pieces in place).

3)      A creative and innovative PD that understands how to motivate, coach and be a leader. The ‘stationality’ is in large part a reflection of the PD’s personality.

4)      A sales manager and staff that understand selling Sports Radio is different from selling other radio formats.

5)      Seizing opportunities! Windows on most opportunities are brief and require quick action. Knowing how to make the most of opportunities can give a Sports Radio station an advantage.

6)      An aggressive, ‘roll-up your sleeves, make it happen’ marketing/promotion person that ‘gets’ the format. A person that can work miracles with minimal marketing dollars.

7)      A system to enhance the relationship between the station and the P1 audience. P1s in Sports Radio are absolutely essential! The stronger the bond, the more TSL they will deliver!!

8)      A solid information foundation. Information does not generate the quarter hours but it is vital in establishing credibility, confidence and dependability. A weak information image leaves a station vulnerable to attack.

9)      Stationality—a Sports Radio station must have its own personality above and beyond the individual personalities. 

10)  Strong on-air production value that contributes to the entertainment and/or information image of the station