Copy Bill Maclaren

by Graham Davies

Bill Maclaren, the distinguished Rugby commentator who died this week, used three presentational techniques that are accessible to people with much less talent than he was blessed with.

First of all, he prepared thoroughly. He researched and made notes about all 30 players on the pitch...and all the reserves. He could also tell you something about the referee and both linesman. He never had to struggle for a piece of personal knowledge, because he had it all carefully set out in front of him.

He also used strikingly distinctive language when under pressure. I will never forget forget him describing one hard-scrummaging wing forward as "rampaging like an angry octopus".

But his most important presentational asset was his sheer enthusiasm for his subject. Talking about Rugby was never a job. It was a passion.

Preparation, unique words and appropriate intensity are three things that everyone should use, whether they are presenting in a TV studio or a Company Boardroom.