Howard Cosell is undoubtedly one of the most famous sports journalists of all time. Known for a rather bombastic personality, and never one to mince words, he defined an entire generation. However, we are now living in a world by the instantaneous transmission of data, and a bookmaking community that has taken on truly global overtones. This is why reporters such as Alexander Thomas Coleman are required to push traditional boundaries.
Mr. Coleman has come to firmly believe that the future of journalism relies on data. Although this is a rather broad statement, the implications are very real. Let’s take a look at why he stands behind such a belief, and how this may eventually transform the entire sector.
Alexander Thomas Coleman: A Patchwork of Talents
Much like any professional, the beliefs of Alexander Thomas Coleman can be directly translated to his educational background.
“I originally studied journalism at the University of Boston. As I was also a regular wagering enthusiast, I decided to augment this major with data analytics when obtaining a master’s degree at Columbia University.”
However, Mr. Coleman clearly states that he does not consider himself to be a jack of all trades in any sense. He instead believes that specialising in a handful of related fields is the best way to appreciate the finer points, and to obtain additional insight that might otherwise be lost on others.
Why Data Journalism?
What is the relationship between data analysis, and journalism? Although all know that some report on the information they have been given, this is far from adequate in the eyes of Alexander Thomas Coleman.
“I view information as pieces of a puzzle. Only by connecting these segments will it be possible to create the entire picture. I don’t feel that the job of a journalist is to simply rehash data that has already been provided. It’s my duty to interlink these points, and to tell a story.”
Might this be the reason why Alexander Thomas Coleman features so prominently within Google searches related to journalism, finance, and even specific asset classes such as Bitcoin? He addressed our question with the telltale insight that he has become known for.
“Data journalism isn’t really anything new; although the title may not be familiar to everyone. My job is simply to interpret the information I am presented with. The only real difference is that I always make it a point to draw conclusions that go far beyond the data itself.”
The Role of the Digital Age
Another point that has become impossible to deny involves the role that the digital community now plays.
“The Internet is rife with data,” Mr. Coleman begins. “Unfortunately, much of this information can be challenging to interpret. The Bollinger bands associated with a live trading chart, and bookmaking fixtures are two common examples. Why not translate these details to the point that they become palatable to the average consumer?”
This is when his flair for journalism once again begins to rise to the surface. He believes that communication is key, and that the role of a reporter is a rather dry title.
“A reporter reports. A journalist takes on the role of a storyteller; hence the phrase ‘journal’ found within the title itself. It’s just a shame that others don’t seem to feel the same.”
He moves on to stress that the sheer scope of the digital community creates a formidable obstacle for those who might not have much technical experience. Alexander Thomas Coleman intends to bridge this virtual gap by providing actionable insight. From his growing cadre of followers on Instagram to an ever-expanding series of podcasts, Mr. Coleman appears to have taken on the role of modern-day guru.
How Much is Too Much?
He nonetheless points out that a delicate balance needs to be struck. “Data overload is a very real phenomenon,” He states with a noted air of caution. “We need to separate the wheat from the chaff, and to avoid spurious information that will accomplish nothing more than clouding the point that’s trying to be explained.”
Alexander Thomas Coleman also feels that websites related to sports betting must develop more user-friendly interfaces.
“I’ve come across many interfaces that would require a codex to interpret.” He says with a grin. “These platforms don’t tell stories. They simply spew out strings of data that will often be glossed over. In a worst-case scenario, bettors who misinterpret this information could even lose a significant amount of money.”
This is why Mr. Coleman is so adamant when championing the importance of data journalism. In an era defined by universal access to information, such an approach may represent the best way forward.
Note that this was only a brief summary of our in-depth interview with Alexander Thomas Coleman. Those who wish to learn more are encouraged to follow his regular posts on TikTok, and to keep an eye out for future updates.
David Prior
David Prior is the editor of Today News, responsible for the overall editorial strategy. He is an NCTJ-qualified journalist with over 20 years’ experience, and is also editor of the award-winning hyperlocal news title Altrincham Today. His LinkedIn profile is here.
