UC CCM Students Showcase Talent in Full Student-Led ESPN+ Broadcast

UC CCM Students Showcase Talent in Full Student-Led ESPN+ Broadcast

CINCINNATI – Sunday, Sept. 22 marked a new benchmark for the University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music (CCM), as it showcased the skills of its Media Production students in producing, directing and announcing the women's soccer match between the host Bearcats and Kansas State.

UC CCM Students Showcase Talent in Full Student-Led ESPN+ BroadcastUC CCM Students Showcase Talent in Full Student-Led ESPN+ Broadcast
CINCINNATI – Sunday, Sept. 22 marked a new benchmark for the University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music (CCM), as it showcased the skills of its Media Production students in producing, directing and announcing the women's soccer match between the host Bearcats and Kansas State.

Student announcers Chase Younts and Alex Perez, both of whom have honed their skills through the Media Production (MPRO) classes at CCM and gained experience with Bearcast Media, took the reins as play-by-play and color analysts. This unique opportunity marked a significant milestone, as the entire broadcast crew—ranging from camera operators to graphics producers—consisted solely of CCM students.

Typically, the ESPN+ broadcast crew is comprised of about 75 percent students, but this production represented a full student-led effort. The UC Athletics Department collaborates closely with CCM's MPRO classes to provide valuable training and real-world broadcast opportunities. Under the guidance of Professor Joe Brackman, students have been thoroughly prepared for live broadcasts throughout the semester.

Trevor Towle, the athletics department's Executive Producer of Broadcasting and Production coordinates the full-time staff and collaborates with Brackman to ensure an exceptional viewing experience for fans.

"This opportunity is special because it allows our students to shine in every role, from production to on-air," said Brackman. "Their camaraderie and enthusiasm make every broadcast enjoyable, and it's rewarding to see them lead this production."

The production team, consisting of directors Ethan Herzog and Katie McDonie, successfully commanded the control room, orchestrated graphics, video elements, camera operations and audio. Their leadership and teamwork delivered an exciting game day experience.

Since Fall 2020, UC's College-Conservatory of Music has engaged students in producing live, multi-camera sports broadcasts for ESPN+, providing them with invaluable hands-on experience. This innovative partnership has not only equipped students with practical skills, but has also helped alumni secure positions with prominent organizations, such as ESPN and the Cincinnati Bengals.