Research: Finding an Athlete

 Intro: 

In my previous post, I learned about subgenres within the genre of sport’s magazines and their conventions. After originally going one way, I decided that I was going to focus on a journey story of an athlete rather than create a highlight reel with the best plays from different athletes for my portfolio.  

In this blog, I’m going to be reaching out to different athletes that I know of, to see if they would like to share their story and be featured in the magazine for my portfolio. 

 

Research: 

I spent the last week diving into the local rosters of West Broward High School and Everglades High School. I wasn’t just looking for stats; I was looking for the "grit factor." I researched game logs, season archives, and local highlights to see who has been sidelined and who has fought their way back to the top. 

 

• Adam Baqai (West Broward, Basketball): A tactical, shifty Point Guard and the "secret weapon of West Broward." I looked into his transition from the 2023-24 season to his current role as a floor general for the Bobcats when coming off the bench, as he tries to fit into a tough varsity rotation mostly starting seniors. 

 

• Jorge Rey III (Everglades, Soccer): A Midfielder and Captain known for high steal counts and playmaking. My research focused on his consistency between his freshman year and his current junior campaign. 

 

• Daniel Aviles (Everglades, Soccer): A Goalkeeper known for being injured but also one of the best in the district. Researching goalies is unique because their "glory" is often measured in saves and clean sheets, the ultimate high-pressure comeback position. 

 

• Guillermo Echevarria (West Broward, Soccer): A Forward/Midfielder with a nose for the goal. I tracked his progression through the district leaderboards to see how he has handled the physical toll of 7A Region play. 

 

Analysis: How This Impacted My Project 

This research was incredibly helpful because it forced me to realize that "glory" isn't always a championship trophy, sometimes it’s just staying on the field. 

I initially thought I’d focus on the highest scorer, but after looking at the numbers, I’m leaning toward Daniel Aviles or Jorge Rey III. Why? Because at Everglades, the defensive and midfield roles often require the most physical resilience. However, Adam Baqai at West Broward presents a compelling "Underdog Narrative." Taking over a super-sub role after a season of rebuilding (or potential injury) is a classic sports arc. 

 

The Decision: 

After asking my friends for their availability to try and tell their stories, I’ve decided to go in a completely different direction.


As I have decided on using myself as the primary focus for this "Journey to Glory" story. 


This is because the portfolio gives me a chance to bring a different perspective to sports media, as it gives me an outlet to talk about indoor percussion which, due to its physicality and competitive nature, can be called a sport. 


Thus, I thought that my personal story would embody the "journey" theme perfectly. 

 


Reflection 

The next step of my project will be to starting exploring the cover conventions for sports magazines, specifically ones that focus on an athlete's journey story, like what I am trying to do for myself and my drumming journey so far. 


Links: 

 

 

 

 

 

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