The end of a season, no matter the outcome, always brings a mix of emotions. Every season is a journey filled with highs and lows, and when a team hasn't performed as well as expected, it provides a unique challenge: how to keep the mid-season engaging and enjoyable. There are countless creative factors at play, and it's easy to hit a point where things start to feel stale. So, how do you maintain the motivation to capture these events and make them captivating?
For me, the key was shifting my focus. Instead of concentrating solely on the broad, big moments, I started to pay closer attention to the details—the people working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that each game remained special for everyone. From the excited child seeing a soccer match for the first time to the devoted fan whose passion never wavers, these small, meaningful moments became the heart of my narrative.
This change in perspective not only invigorated my creativity but also deepened my appreciation for the interactions and connections happening all around—between fans and players, and among the fans themselves. By embracing these unique stories and intimate exchanges, I found a renewed sense of purpose and excitement in capturing the essence of the season.
I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to the incredible people working behind the scenes, whose dedication remained unwavering through the highs and lows of this season. Your commitment has inspired me to see the game in a new light and to approach it with greater creativity. Thank you for everything you do.
Rene and Rachel are the backbone of every game, working tirelessly to ensure smooth operations from the camera crew to the referees and ball kids. They make sure everyone knows their role and has the resources they need to succeed throughout the match. Their dedication and attention to detail create a seamless experience for both the staff and the spectators. By fostering a well-coordinated team, Rene and Rachel contribute significantly to the success of each event.
Jake stands out as one of the most diligent individuals you'll meet. As the team manager, his meticulous organization ensures that every detail is accounted for, from equipment to jerseys, leaving no stone unturned. Managing a group of guys can be quite the challenge, but he handles it with remarkable efficiency and good humor. His unwavering commitment not only keeps the team running smoothly but also sets a high standard for others to follow.
Greg, I can't express enough how grateful I am for all the support you've given me this season. Not only did you welcome my sister onto your squad, but you also provided countless moments of laughter and joy. Your unwavering dedication to the team and constant lookout for everyone's well-being have truly made a difference. Your leadership have not only strengthened the squad (literally and metaphorically) but have also left a lasting positive impact on each of us.
Rachel! You've absolutely slayed this season, and I always love working with you on finding ways to enhance the game day experience for our partners. Your dedication and creativity have made such a positive impact. Keep channeling that energy, and together, we'll continue to achieve incredible results. I'm excited to see what is in store for you next!
The camera squad never ceases to impress me with their precision and skill. I sometimes lose track of a quick play through my lens, but they always manage to capture every critical moment with unparalleled accuracy. Their ability to anticipate and react in real-time ensures that not a single important shot is missed. Working alongside such a talented team elevates our entire operation and makes each game day a seamless experience.
Izzy, I have to say, you stand out among many for the hurdles you've overcome this season. Your resilience and dedication speak volumes about your character and who you truly are. Anyone who fails to recognize that hasn't been paying attention. Not only have I thoroughly enjoyed collaborating with you, but you've also been an incredible friend throughout the year. Your tireless commitment during those all-nighters is bound to pay off, and you deserve nothing but success. I'm genuinely excited to see where your talent and hard work will take you.
Being a goalkeeper is challenging, but being the backup goalkeeper is one of the most demanding roles on the team. You have to be prepared to step in at a moment's notice, always bringing game-level intensity and energy, even from the bench. Pat, your unwavering commitment and dedication to the team do not go unnoticed. Thank you for consistently giving your all in every single game. Your readiness and positive attitude inspire those around you, and they play a crucial role in the team's success.
JP! Your talent for graphics is nothing short of remarkable. You are by far my favorite graphic designer to collaborate with, and your ability to elevate my work while retaining its original essence is something I truly admire. I've shared this with you before, but it's worth repeating—you have a unique skill in enhancing the core message of a project without overshadowing it. Working alongside you is always a refreshing and inspiring experience, as your creativity consistently produces innovative and exciting outcomes. It's genuinely a pleasure to partner with you, and I look forward to many more successful projects together.
I absolutely love working with interns, and this season the video interns and my photography star, Maddy, truly excelled. Their dedication was unmatched, consistently capturing everything from the bustling concourse to the action on the field. Just to highlight their commitment, they arrived a full three hours before each game and often stayed up to an hour afterward, ensuring no moment went undocumented. Their dedication and eye for detail have significantly enhanced our projects. It's been a joy watching them grow and contribute so meaningfully to our team.
I want to conclude by expressing my heartfelt gratitude to my friend and one of my favorite coaches, Danny. Danny had an incredible ability to know everyone by name, and he truly valued each person's contribution, whether you were on the field or filling up water bottles. To Danny, everyone mattered, and everyone was an integral part of the team. In my experience photographing clubs from MLS to NWSL to USL to the Premier League, Danny stood out as the first coach to introduce me to the entire team and coaching staff during a practice. This gesture made me feel genuinely welcomed, especially as a female photographer, in an industry where inclusivity is often lacking. Danny, thank you for making me feel like a part of the team rather than an outsider. I've said it before, and I'll say it again: you are not only a remarkable coach but an even better human being. You truly deserve nothing but the best, and I look forward to seeing your continued impact on those around you.
There are so many more people I could thank, including Eric, Annie, and Joey, who prefer to stay out of the spotlight, but I’d be here all day if I named them all. I also want to express my gratitude to all the fans who take the time to chat with me at each game, as well as the aspiring photographers looking to capture the beautiful game. Every conversation means the world to me, and I hope each of you feels seen and appreciated as a crucial part of our community.
So yeah the team may not have had its best season and there are many factors outside our control, at the end of the day sometimes, just like in life, we need to adjust our perspective to make it to the end. Hopefully next season will be better, but if not, hey, at least you discovered a new perspective.
