NEO
Photo Creds to Mario Arias
While working, I am referred to as NEO. It is not an alter-ego or separate persona, instead it is a nickname I picked up while working a few years ago. NEO is short for “Neapolitan”. It came about due to constantly getting sunburned at work. My forehead remains white, my face turns a bright shade of pink, and my beard makes up the brown, combining to make the three colors of neapolitan ice cream. The abbreviated spelling is a little different than how it probably should be, but that’s what stuck. So, as long as I am in the sports production industry, I will always be referred to as NEO.
WEP
War Eagle Productions is a live sports production company focusing on television broadcasts and in venue video board shows for a number of Auburn University’s athletic teams. I have worked at WEP as a student worker for over four years. Working at WEP has taught me many things about the sports production industry and has helped give me unparalleled experience.
My main role at WEP is as a Cameraman for live sports events and video board shows. However, no one is pigeon holed and can work in various different roles. I have also worked as an Audio Engineer, Utility, Logger, and Show Control Operator.
Here are a few Auburn venues and moments that I have been able to capture from behind the lens.
Working as a student employee has been the most impactful thing in my collegiate journey. It has allowed me to explore new paths and combine responsibility with creativity. Creating memories and connections that will last a lifetime. WEP has also created opportunities that have played a part in propelling me into a career. I am very thankful for all of the people who put time into teaching me and letting me grow.
Truck Shows
The next step as a cameraman is earning contract work with production companies for sports and events. These jobs are referred to as “truck shows” because the broadcast is run out of a mobile unit truck that houses all of the equipment and technology. I have been blessed to have been working truck shows for the last two years, even as a student still in college.
I have worked with a few different production companies as a camera-for-hire for sporting events as well as some professional events. Some of these include:
- Alabama State Football (2023)
- Southeastern Conference Swim and Dive Championships (2024)
- Auburn Football (2024)
- The Steeplechase Horse Racing in Georgia (2024)
- Barstool Sports Pregame Talkshow (2024)
- Auburn Community Church Easter Service at Neville Arena (2025)
- Sun Belt Conference Softball Championships (2025)
- National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service in Maryland (2025)