By Harvey Snider, president, Norcross Touchdown Club | So, what’s the story on this new 31×50 foot videoboard at Norcross High School’s football field?
Snider
Back on August 23, 2014, Norcross High School Head Football Coach Keith Maloof looked across the field at the McEachern High School videoboard before leading his team to victory over Tucker in the Corky Kell Classic. (The game had been moved from the Georgia Dome since the Atlanta Falcons had a football game there on that date.)
Maloof wondered: “How could this school and community best benefit from a videoboard?”
This question led to a comparison, a contrast, a nationwide search and a partnership with John Gibb and Formetco Inc., based in Duluth. The results are amazing.
Instead of thinking of the videoboard as merely an information center for football, people around Maloof got to thinking of other possibilities, including boys and girls lacrosse and soccer, along with movie nights.
This vision led to an innovative vertically integrated educational opportunity that could be used as a new learning tool to teach students how to operate and produce real time video. At the same time, they would be gaining valuable experience which would make them more employable if entering the work force in Georgia’s film industry.
Other new learning experiences for students will come in advertising, marketing and social media.
This story was shared with other key individuals, who learned of the additional benefits beyond Friday night football games. Soon commitments were secured, the funds were raised and construction began!
Many individuals and firms participated to make this a reality. However, special thanks are extended to The Piedmont Bank and Norcross Sports Training Academy for stepping up in a leadership capacity.
As excitement built over late July and early August, many were stunned at the high resolution of the videoboard and began to dream even more of what could be. On different parts of the board at the same time was a recording taken by a drone flying over the stadium, while a ski video also played. The videoboard was unveiled for the first time prior to a downpour during the August 19 community pep rally.
The full capabilities were showcased during the victory over the Milton High team on September 4. All enjoyed the different camera views and especially the interaction with the roving sideline camera crews. Band members, Blue Crew and the Cheerleaders were happy and stunned to see their faces on the giant board. Even parents got into the action! Many were seen recording videos of the videoboard!
Watch for the Norcross Film Team during the football games. You will notice them with their special tee shirts labeled “Film Minions” on the back. When they turn around, you will see bright eyes, laughter and a smile.
Our students are enjoying learning in a different venue. Come out and join the fun next Friday night, October 2 at 7:30 p.m. when the Norcross Blue Devils welcome the North Gwinnett Bulldogs, with highlights being shown on this new videoboard.
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