Inside the Television
Ever wonder what the press box looks like during a game?
Thanks to the kind gesture of Florida Marlins broadcaster Rich Waltz and FSN, I was able to observe what a baseball game looks like from up there. Here’s my story.
Exit out of the elevator and you will enter into a world that many greats have been in: Vin Scully, Jack Buck, and Mel Allen. While these successful people achieve glitz and glamour, they are just a part of the team. There are many perks to work in that team: your own private entrance, a free buffet, and make a baseball stadium your office. However as soon as you walk into the FSN booth you realize it’s more than just two men that put on a successful show.
Perhaps the most noticeable difference is the 25-30 people on the other side of the camera. We all see the tasks for Marlin broadcasters Rich Waltz or Tommy Hutton but what we don’t see is the seven people operating in the press box. Working alongside the on-air talent is an audio manager, stage manager, statistician, cameraman, and a high tech cameraman. All work together to achieve a relaxed atmosphere in a demanding industry but who could blame them, they are getting paid to watch baseball. Spend one inning with the professional yet humorous group and you’ll find that a smile is a sign of success. Jon, the cameraman said it best, “Can you believe we get paid for this?”
The second most noticeable difference is the technicality involved to cover something as simple as a major league baseball game. Six cameras are stationed throughout Dolphins Stadium to make sure every inch is covered. Microphones are placed behind home plate, in both bullpens, the Marlins dugout and in the outfield. In addition to all the equipment is the 10 manned TV booth filled with 66 TV’s.
A producer and director work together to make sure stories get told and the best camera angle is on the air. Three graphic specialists work behind them constantly changing stats and providing stressful humor. In the next room are three people rewinding the live action to provide us with instant replays. Production Manger Chip Singer said, “Imagine a big TiVo and that’s what they do.” These men work together and are constantly working hard in a cold, dark office room, but that’s what they have to do. The most technical man in the booth is the audio man. He has the task of pleasing all the ears involved in the production crew along with us, the audience.
In general, these people are passionate about what they do and aren’t afraid to smile and cut jokes. They are quick to refrain from proper titles like Mr., Ms, or sir and mam. Believe me, only my parents would be proud of saying all those titles. They love what they do and do what they love. Isn’t that the life?
I’d like to thank Fox Sports Net and Rich Waltz for allowing a college student fueled by dreams into their workplace. It’s a simple thing for them but the world to others. Continue to shine even though the Marlins don’t.
