On a sunny September afternoon, students from Morton East and West high schools gathered at Guaranteed Rate Field to watch the Chicago White Sox secure a commanding 7 to 0 victory. The combination of a gentle breeze and the buzz of anticipation made it a perfect day for a classic ballpark outing.
But that White Sox weren’t the only team to score a win.
Morton students learned about the field of professional sports journalism as White Sox radio and television play-by-play journalists and analysts Len Kasper, Connor McKnight, John Schriffen and Alyssa Bergamini participated in a pre-game interview session and q-and-a on the field prior to the game against the Los Angeles Angels on Sept. 26, the last home game of the season for the White Sox. The group of broadcast professionals gave tips and career advice to students who might be interested in journalism before the Sox game.
Mcknight encouraged students to pursue the career but noted that it can be challenging because there are only so many opportunities in professional sports.
“It’s a very competitive career, a lot of people want to do this for a living.” Connor Mcknight said, explaining to the students. “Get as much experience as you can: it’s a skill.”
McKnight also pointed out that determination and diligence in the profession can often be the determining factors for success.
“Every journey, every path is unique. You can get some good advice along the way about things you can do but at the end of the day it’s your path, your journey and nobody can make it happen more than you.”
For students, the experience was more than just a one-sided Sox victory. Another one of the highlights of the day was the $15 food vouchers included with their tickets. Students eagerly used these vouchers to try various ballpark treats. Analise Valldeperas, a student from West, reflected on the experience, saying, “Although it was overpriced and portions were small, the food brought people together as we shared our food with Xochitl and others.”
Dario Chavez, a senior at West, shared his thoughts on how he spent the day. “We got food with the $15 vouchers, and I ate funnel cake for the first time. We also bought merchandise from the team store.” Dario was joined by friends Gabe Sanchez, Josh Martinez, and Valldeperas, and he was excited about his purchases, which included a Sox jersey, socks, and a hat. “I wanted to take home a piece of the experience,” he said, emphasizing the pride of wearing team colors.
As the game progressed, the camaraderie among the students was clear. Groups of friends engaged in lively conversations, took selfies, and cheered together during key moments of the match.
