As the world prepares for Olympic fever to grip nations around the globe, we COMMsters may cheer for the broadcasters as well as the athletes. After all, many COMM alumni always secretly wanted to be Bob Costas, I know I did.

But . . .are they sportcasters really “calling ’em as they see ’em”?  Dr. James Angelini has discovered some interesting differences in the way male and female athletes are covered. He describes them here in this video.  He says women tend to be described “graceful” while men are described as having “skill and commitment”.

He and his colleagues also noticed differences based in race and nationality.

So when you’re at that first Olympics house party, keep a check list of how many “pretty” athletes vs. “skilled” ones show up in your viewing!