A Photographer’s First Assignment as a Reporter Covering the AAFL Draft

By Darla S. Tamulitis
(Copyright 2008 TexSport Publications) (All Photos Copyright 2008 by Darla Tamulitis-La Vita Loco Photography)

HOUSTON, TEXAS (January 26, 2008) Being a photographer, I shy away from writing. My strength is shooting pictures. I know this as fact and my editor agrees. So when he asked me how much I knew about football, I was astonished by his question and responded “foot what.”

With a short chuckle and an even shorter exchange of pleasantries, my assignment was to cover the inaugural All American Football League draft at the Westin Oaks Houston on Saturday. I got the assignment details, loaded my Jeep and drove across Houston to the Westin Oaks in the Galleria. \

As I strolled into the hotel, I did not know what I was getting into. Being there in dual role of photographer and writer was new for me. Usually I shoot the required photos, retire to a quiet corner to edit them and e-mail said photos to the appropriate person. After that, I am done and can relax until the next assignment. Let the writers write I always say. After I get the photos, I am done. Today I was in for a new experience.

As I walked into the crowded banquet room at the Westin Oaks where the draft party was held, I was struck by the overall excitement and anticipation that filled the room.

As I arrived, Team Texas had already selected 2001 Heisman Trophy winner Eric Crouch as their first round pick. Crouch played quarterback for Nebraska, a role he would continue with Texas. Previously, he played professionally for the Toronto Argonauts of the CFL and the Hamburg Sea Devils of NFL Europe.

As I milled around the room I did what most people would do in an unfamiliar situation, I headed for the free food at the buffet bar. Knowing that athletes at any level are serious eaters, I felt I could strike up a conversation with someone who might have something interesting to say.

I do not do interviews. I am a photographer. Writers write and photographers shoot pictures. Never the two shall meet, at least not in my book. Well, not today at least. I am in for the entire game, so I had better make the best of it. I am glad my instincts drew me to the food. Good things always happen over food.

After I appropriated a plate full of nachos, a favorite of any serious journalist, I sat down at a table that was occupied by a single young man. I introduced myself and asked him who he was and how he was doing. He smiled and said he was doing great. He added that he was recently been drafted by Texas and introduced himself as Eric Buchannan.

Buchannan, who played safety for TCU in college, is currently working for the US Postal Service. As I sat and listened to him, I got the distinct impression that he was very grateful for the opportunity to play professional football.

Here was a man who completed his college eligibility, graduated from said college, and entered the workforce. Who would have guessed he would be given a chance to fulfill his dream of playing professional football? Very few people, I imagine. I listened a bit more, thanked him for the interview and excused myself.

I looked around the room for a new table at which to sit. Yes, I took my nachos with me. They were a reason to sit and start conservation.

As I circulated around the room, I knew I had happened onto something special. I was witnessing something that does not come around very often. That something is people who are given a chance to see their dreams come true.

I talked to Rolando Humphrey, who played cornerback for SMU. He had also been selected for the protected list by Texas. He now owns a paint and body shop in north Dallas and was accompanied by his girlfriend. She is in her last year of college at SMU and will graduate in May. They both seemed just as excited as Buchannan did with this chance to continue playing the game he loves so much.

As time went on, Texas announced more of their picks. In the second round, Texas had the 10th overall pick, selecting Freddie McCutcheon (defensive tackle-San Jose State). Their third pick (15th overall) was Aaron Cotteral (defensive tackle/linebacker-Lenoir Rhine/South Carolina).

As each new member of Texas was announced, family members cheered and screamed with excitement. It was reminiscent of the numerous draft shows I have witnessed on television. Each family member showed the pride and exuberance of a dream come true. Their son, brother, cousin, or friend was having their dream and desires fulfilled also. To see a loved one given chance at greatness is a think to behold.

Professional sports have become so typical as of late. Money, money, money! That is what professional sports is all about currently. However, that is not what I saw here.

The players seemed not to be excited about the money they were going to make or the fame they may receive. They were excited to be back in the game they loved. They were excited to have the chance to line up across from each other and play the game they grew with. .In essence, they were very grateful for one more chance.

I later talked to William Blaylock (offense lineman, Baylor) who is currently coaching at West Texas A&M University. He was also selected for the protected list and told me if this works out, he would not be coaching next year. I could tell that he hoped he would be able to call West Texas A&M and give them the sad news would not be retuning to Canyon, Texas to coach this fall.

I can only imagine how these players and their families feel about this opportunity. As a photographer, I have always felt that one can cover an event but never really be a part of it. My feelings today were very strange. I am so used to coming into an event, looking for best shot and leaving; never really getting into the full experience that is the event.

I did not feel that way today. The room was filled with celebration. It was a very joyous occasion. Family member and friends were truly excited for their players. I felt the same way. I felt happy for every one of these young men and hope they achieve their dream.

As I think about this assignment, I feel I really was part of it. Every person was excited and proud that I wanted to talk to him or her, to hear their stories, and feel their pride. If there has been a sofa, an overstuffed chair and my dog lying at my feet, I could not have been any more at home.

This assignment could not have turned out any better. So next time, when my editor asks me how much I know about football, I am going to respond, “As much as any female photographer/football fan can.”

I am ready for the season to start on April 19. To quote John Fogerty from his song Centerfield, “Put me in coach, I ready to play, today”