With this being my first Media Day experience ever, thanks to being a part of the College Football Dawgs, I am pleased to say that it was an amazing experience. Going into this I honestly did not know what to expect, just that I was to document, record and take notes of what I saw, heard or asked anyone.
Entering Hotel Hartness in Greenville, S.C., and seeing the amazing setup for the Southern Conference event shows their dedication to the teams, the athletes and the media all representing the SoCon. The hospitality of Hotel Hartness supplying drinks and snacks as well as the lavish lunch served to all who attended, it was perfect.
Entering the hall to the meeting rooms to find the Athletic Directors were deep into their meeting, I was able to explore the grounds and SoCon displays that had been built. It was a great atmosphere as all participants entered the building and greeted each other. Photographers were taking pictures of the athletes posing on the "field" throwing a football around.
Each team brought one of their helmets and a team football to display with them during the event. The conference also brought helmets for each team. After the Athletic Directors' meeting was over, I could enter the room while it was being set up for the event. During the lunch break a representative for The Citadel came over to switch out their helmet.
The rep stated that the helmet the SoCon possessed would have to go back with them due to it having a GFD decal on it. The rep stated that decals can not be on the helmets anymore. After talks between the SoCon and The Citadel SID, Jay Sullivan, it was determined that it was ok if they just remove the decal from the helmet.
In the meeting room it was finally time for the presentation showing that the preseason coaches poll agreed Chattanooga would come out No. 1 this season. When asked about the expectation of being a preseason favorite, tight end Jay Gibson downplayed the ranking.
"When Chattanooga's been picked to win preseason, I don't have any rings to show for it so I try not to pay too much attention to it," Gibson said.
Everyone was given time to meet and interview the players and coaches. With cameras rolling, local news stations, podcasters and school reporters sprang into action. So many people were talking all at once but everyone was friendly and patient. I was able to take some great pictures and videos for College Football Dawgs and am so excited and hope to be given the opportunity to cover SoCon Media days next year.
Comments