Ohio to the Bayou

Part 4

The morning sun had barely risen over the Baton Rouge skyline when I made my way to the LSU football complex. My excitement was palpable; today was the day I'd officially meet the 2020 LSU football team. I'd heard a lot about their national championship win last year, and now, as part of the media team, I was getting the chance to work with them directly. The thought of capturing moments from their practices and games made my heart race.

As I approached the complex, the imposing structure seemed to buzz with energy. Players were already filtering in, some chatting in groups, others focused and silent, earbuds in, lost in their pre-practice routines. I checked in at the front desk, received my media pass, and was directed to the locker room area where I'd be introduced to the team.

The locker room was a hive of activity. The scent of sweat and athletic tape filled the air as players suited up and prepared for the day ahead. I could hear the low hum of conversations, punctuated by bursts of laughter and the occasional shout. I felt a bit out of place but reminded myself that this was exactly where I wanted to be.

Coach Orgeron, with his unmistakable gravelly voice, spotted me and waved me over. "Good to see you, Emma! Welcome to the team." His smile was warm and genuine, putting me at ease instantly. "Everyone, listen up! This is Emma, our new photographer. She'll be around capturing moments for us, so get used to having her around."

A few players glanced up and gave nods or brief waves. I noticed their camaraderie, the way they interacted with ease and familiarity. Among them, one player stood out—not because of his size or stature, but because of the aura of confidence he exuded. Jamarr Chase. I'd seen him on TV, making impossible catches and leaving defenders in the dust, but seeing him in person was something else.

After Coach's introduction, I made my way over to Jamarr, who was lacing up his cleats. I took a deep breath, hoping to make a good impression. "Hi, Jamarr. I'm Emma, the new photographer."

He looked up and smiled, his eyes lighting up with curiosity. "Hey, Emma. Welcome to the team. You're the one who'll make us look good, huh?"

I laughed, grateful for his friendly demeanor. "I'll do my best. I'm excited to capture some great moments this season."

"Just make sure you catch my good side," he joked, flashing a grin that was both charming and mischievous.

We chatted for a few more minutes, and I found him easy to talk to. Despite his superstar status, Jamarr was down-to-earth and genuinely interested in getting to know me. He told me about his hometown, his journey to LSU, and how much last year's championship win meant to him and the team. I shared a bit about my own background, my love for photography, and how I ended up at LSU.

Our conversation was cut short by the whistle signaling the start of practice. Jamarr stood up, towering over me, and gave me a quick nod. "Nice to meet you, Emma. See you out there."

As the players headed out to the field, I grabbed my camera and followed. The practice was intense, with Coach Orgeron's voice booming across the field, directing drills and offering encouragement. I moved around the sidelines, capturing shots of the players in action, their determination and teamwork evident in every frame.

Jamarr was a natural in front of the camera. His athleticism and skill were mesmerizing, and I found myself focusing on him more often than not. He seemed to have an instinct for the game, always in the right place at the right time, making catches that defied logic.

After practice, as the players cooled down and stretched, I took a few candid shots. Jamarr caught my eye and gave me a thumbs up, a silent acknowledgment of our earlier conversation. I smiled back, feeling a sense of connection and acceptance.

That evening, I reviewed the day's photos in my dorm room, marveling at the moments I'd captured. The camaraderie, the focus, the sheer talent of the team—it was all there, frozen in time through my lens. And amid all the action, Jamarr Chase stood out, not just as a star player, but as a genuine person who had taken the time to make me feel welcome.

As I prepared for bed, I reflected on the day's events. Meeting the team, especially Jamarr, had been an incredible experience. I felt a renewed sense of excitement and determination. This was just the beginning, and I couldn't wait to see what the season had in store.

With a smile on my face, I drifted off to sleep, dreaming of touchdowns, triumphant victories, and the countless stories waiting to be told through my camera.