Charlie Davies seems like a natural in the broadcasting booth, just like he did gliding around the pitch in MLS, Europe and for the US national team. Meaningful words and analysis in front of a microphone seem to come easy for the fleet-footed, easy-talking forward-turned-broadcaster, just like goals once did.
Of course, that didn't happen on accident as Davies earned a chance to be the New England Revolution's color analyst for the 2020 season.
“I knew from the get-go it was going to be hard work," Davies told MLSsoccer.com. "It was fortunate for me that (lead Fox Sports broadcaster) Stu Holden told me this is no joke. He said a lot of guys get found out because they don’t do the research, don’t put in the time then look like a fool. If you’re going to do it, know that you have to do your homework, you have to take it seriously.”
And during the COVID-19 pandemic-induced isolation, Davies is using the time to sharpen his skills further.
Davies is rewatching big matches of old, take note of commentating techniques. He's gone back to World Cup, Champions League, Premier League and MLS matches for inspiration. After watching a replay, he'll restart the tape, turn off the sound and call the game. He leans on Holden and ESPN's Taylor Twellman for insight as well, "those are the two best in the United States" he quickly points out.
He likes to watch games done by NBC Sports as well, led by Arlo White, Graeme Le Saux and Lee Dixon to get a splice of more "old-school language", as he calls it, and to see if other analysts are seeing the game the same way he is or not.
“That’s the only way you’ll get better, if you commit to it," Davies said. "I think I’ve made a lot of progress in a short amount of time.”
Davies worked US Open Cup broadcasts and was the lead color analyst for men's college soccer games on the ACC Network, for some of his post-playing resume.
“I have great friends who I can rely on, who give me good insight," Davies said. "But it’s the feedback that gets you better, and they give me honest feedback. That’s crucial for development. If you don’t have someone saying the things you’re not doing well, you’re not going to improve.”
Whenever MLS returns, Davies will be back in the booth calling Revs games. And he'll be ready.
“I knew it was my calling, that’s what I’ve always done," Davies said. "I analyze games, I love to watch games. If you can do that, you can educate others, then the job is for you. It’s what you’re made to do.”
