There’s nothing like covering a football game from the sidelines, as Julissa De Jesus and Stephanie Garcia recently learned.
On Friday, Oct. 2, these Plant City High students shadowed Sports Editor Justin Kline and learned how to cover football, Plant City Times & Observer-style. The girls took their own photos, helped track stats and spoke with several Raiders.
After the game, they wrote about the experience and what they took from it.
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This was my first time taking photographs for the Plant City Times & Observer and of football. I have taken pictures with my phone before, but that’s it.
Shadowing Sports Editor Justin Kline was really cool and an honor. He explained to us how to take photographs of the players. Some of the best shots to look for are how the players act when they score points and action on the field.
We also learned where to position ourselves on the sidelines. We almost got hit by some of the players in the first quarter, but Kline was there to warn us.
Another part of the shadowing process was interviewing players on the sideline.
D.J. Tice told us his favorite thing about football.
“Coming together as a team to win tough games like this one,” Tice said.
Zay King told us why he likes playing wide receiver.
“I like this position because this is where the money’s at, and it’s the main player,” King said.
I wouldn’t have changed this experience for the world. It gave me a new perspective on football and made me feel like a part of the reporting team. I love taking photographs of the action and the excitement, especially when you have to be quick on your feet. You’re basically all over the field.
You haven’t seen football until you are on the sideline.
— Julissa De Jesus
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My experience on the field was amazing.
I saw firsthand what the game was like and how the action takes place. Being able to capture the incredible relationship the team members have with each other and the love they have for the sport was something I really enjoyed.
Another thing I loved was going to the press box, where they talk on the microphone, because I have never been there before.
I got to experience something new, I learned many strategies and improved in areas where I was lacking. It was fun, and I had a great time.
— Stephanie Garcia