In this episode of Control Room Conversations, we sit down with freelance replay operator and Replay Row co-founder Tom Wadsworth to explore the finesse behind replay. Since beginning his career in 2016, Tom has worked across broadcasts and live productions for Fox Sports, ESPN, NFL Network, Riot Games, Van Wagner, AEG, and others. His work has taken him from major Los Angeles sports venues to national broadcasts and esports productions, including being part of the team recognized with a 2024 Sports Emmy Award for Outstanding Esports Championship Coverage. Tom breaks down what a replay operator is actually doing during a live show: watching multiple cameras, anticipating what matters, quickly organizing clips, and understanding what a producer or director may need next. We talk about working across EVS, DreamCatcher, 3Play, and Mira systems, and why mastering the equipment is only one part of mastering replay. We also explore the differences between national broadcasts and in-house productions, the importance of knowing the sport, learning to think like a producer, and developing the instincts that allow an operator to find and deliver the right moment at the right time. Tom shares the story behind Replay Row, the community he co-founded with Logan Bierman to celebrate the craft of replay and share knowledge among operators. That leads to a larger conversation about collaboration and why technical ability alone doesn't build a career. Being someone others trust, enjoy working alongside, and want back in the control room matters just as much. From maintaining focus through marathon broadcasts to finding ways to mentally switch off when the show is finally over, Tom offers a look at both the technical and human sides of a job that can fundamentally change how an audience experiences a moment. Whether you're an aspiring replay operator, already working in live production, or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes of a sports broadcast, this conversation explores the skill, instinct, and finesse behind the replay. Find Tom & Replay Row Instagram: @replayrow LinkedIn: Thomas (Tom) Wadsworth
