What happens behind the cameras, microphones, and scoreboard on game day? Killeen ISD Career Center students found out during a behind-the-scenes visit to the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor’s Crusader Stadium.
Students from Mr. Griffin’s Digital Audio classes and advanced Mr. Bartoszek’s TV/AV classes explored how classroom skills connect to careers in sports broadcasting, video production, athletics, and live events.
Several students in Mr. Griffin’s classes have already been working at Killeen ISD football games this year, providing radio play-by-play and color commentary, operating cameras and assisting with replay. The visit to UMHB gave them an opportunity to see how those same responsibilities are handled at the collegiate level and to compare their developing skills with a professional college game-day operation.
The visit was hosted by David Twilleager, UMHB’s Manager of Athletics Videography and Crusader Stadium Graphics, who showed students the technology, teamwork and creativity required to produce a college game.
Students toured the stadium and heard from several UMHB professionals, including:
Josh Champ, who shared information about admissions and recruiting.
Coach Jordan Cox, who discussed his experiences as a football color commentator and basketball play-by-play announcer.
Dr. Lester Sombito, who introduced students to careers in sport management.
David Twilleager, who led a game-day production presentation and answered student questions.
The students learned that game day is about much more than what happens on the field. Cameras, graphics, audio, announcing, replay, technology, and teamwork all come together to bring the action to life.
For students who have already gained hands-on experience covering local football games, the trip provided a valuable opportunity to see how their classroom and field experience translates to a collegiate production. It also allowed them to ask professionals what it takes to succeed in the fast-paced world of sports media.
A big thank-you goes to David Twilleager and the UMHB Athletics team for welcoming the students and inspiring the next generation of broadcasters, producers, videographers and sports professionals.
The game may happen on the field, but the story comes alive behind the scenes!
Story & Photos: Benjamin Griffin