Game Day Production: Behind the Scenes at Hertz Arena
Working as part of the production team for the Florida Everblades involves managing a lot of moving parts simultaneously. On game day, the role shifts depending on the specific needs of the broadcast and the in-arena experience.
The Workflow
A significant portion of the job is spent at the replay station. This requires tracking multiple live camera feeds and building replays in real-time. The goal is to capture key moments and highlights as they happen so they can be sent to the Jumbotron or the broadcast feed immediately.
The process is driven by:
Live Cues: Taking constant direction through the headset to stay in sync with the production.
Shot Lists: Working through pre-defined requirements from the director while reacting to the live action on the ice.
Technical Precision: Clipping and exporting footage on the fly without missing the next play.
Beyond the Hockey
While the game is the focus, the production covers the entire event. This includes filming live entertainment, sponsor segments, and mini-games with the hosts. Whether it's tracking mascot antics with Swampee or capturing fan reactions for a promotion, everything is streamed live to the big screen.
The Environment
The pace of pro hockey is fast, and the production booth is no different. It’s a high-pressure environment with a constant flow of information. You have to stay locked in for the duration of the game to ensure the technical execution is seamless.
