As a 'Caps Club Member, Bowen Cunningham used his 'Caps Points to have the unique chance to sit in the press box and report on the 2016 Whitecaps FC Alumni Match. Below, he shares his experience.
On September 24 when I went to BC Place, I didn’t go straight to my seat as I usually would when I attend a match. This time I went to the press box instead. For me, it was a totally different experience than going to my seat. I got to see the ins and outs of the Whitecaps and their media. I saw the different facilities, including the box where TSN 1040 are setup, as well as a room for the American national broadcast on FOX Sports and the print media’s room. In addition to the media, I observed the box where both general managers are on the day of a game. I didn’t know what to expect before seeing everything, but after being walked through all of the rooms, I have an understanding of how complex it is to produce and broadcast a professional sporting event. I learned how much the broadcasters go through on match day from understanding both team’s players names, and facts on the players, to setting up the sound and cameras for the game, and filming the match. I can only imagine what it would be like sitting in the press row for a sold out match at BC Place.
As for the action on the pitch, it was great to see former Whitecaps FC players such as Jay DeMerit, Andy O’Brien, Y.P. Lee, and Robert Earnshaw, the latter who bagged a hat-trick on the day. I very much enjoyed seeing the 86ers on the pitch, as I never had the pleasure of watching them play in their prime.
All in all, I had a splendid time, both learning about the press, and watching the match on the field. Thanks to the Whitecaps for such a unique experience.
Final score of the match was Vancouver Whitecaps FC Alumni 5, Vancouver 86ers 4.
Signing off from seat 52 on press row, Bowen Cunningham.
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