The National Zoo is located in Washington DC, the United States' capital city. It has a reputation for being one of the most popular zoos in North America. As a result, its editorial staff must consider what tone to adopt during major sporting events such as the Super Bowl and the World Series. During these events, the zoo's editors strive to create a patriotic atmosphere that encourages visitors to be proud of their country while also celebrating athletic achievement. By doing so, they hope to bring together diverse people from all walks of life who share an enthusiasm for sports. One way the zoo does this is by publishing articles about individual athletes competing in these games. The zoo typically begins each article by describing the athlete's background and why they are important to the event.
Before the Women's Basketball Final Four game between UConn and Notre Dame last year, the zoo published an article highlighting how Katie Lou Samuelson had been named the tournament MVP after leading her team to victory against Mississippi State. This approach helps readers understand the significance of each player's role in the competition and builds excitement for them throughout the event. In addition to athlete profiles, the zoo also produces previews of upcoming matches or races and provides predictions regarding which teams will win or lose. These pieces provide context for those who may not follow professional sports closely but still want to participate in conversations surrounding these major contests. During these events, the zoo aims to strike a balance between promoting nationalism and acknowledging international competition. While many Americans take pride in rooting for their home team or favorite players from abroad, the zoo recognizes that some fans view these global competitions as opportunities to appreciate other cultures through shared interests in athletics. Thus, it often features stories detailing various countries' histories with particular sports or exploring how different nations approach training and strategy differently than others.
The zoo's editorial tone during major sporting events reflects its commitment to celebrating athletic excellence while encouraging visitors to embrace diversity within our country. It hopes to foster a sense of patriotism among all people by using language appropriate both inside and outside the stadium gates.