Students of DGN may have noticed emails containing football-streaming links coming through their inboxes on Fridays before home football games. WDGC Radio Club and Cable 99 Video Club, led by English teacher John Waite, work to make these streaming links accessible for those not at the game. From grandparents to community members, the Youtube live streams can be watched by anyone.
“We have been broadcasting football games on the radio ever since I took over the station in fall of 1999. They were doing it before then, too, but I don’t know how much further back. Back then, doing the games on video was not really an option. I think we began streaming the games on YouTube in 2018, at least, those are the earliest ones I have on our channel,” Waite said.
Not only are football games broadcast, but also some basketball games. Sophomore Zachary Gowen has been announcing the basketball live streams since his freshman year.
“I get to be part of big and exciting moments. My job is to enhance that moment and bring excitement to the viewer through the screen. It is a big part of our high school culture and the numbers show that people appreciate having access to the game from anywhere in the world,” Gowen said.
Although current students may not pay much attention to the streams, they may come to appreciate them one day. Those invested in football or school spirit can stay in touch as they move through life.
“Not everyone can make it to the games, so it’s a nice option to stay up on what is happening. Also, there are alumni and family members of the players who do not live nearby, so it’s a great way for them to be able to stay connected to the school. I have had people tell me that they really appreciate being able to stay warm at home when the games are on really cold nights,” Waite said.