I, Dahani Woodward, received the opportunity this year to become East’s football sports announcer at Nicholas Schroeder Field for all of our home games. 

I was first approached by Mr. Busold, Easts Varsity Football Coach, back in September of this school year. He wanted me to assist our current announcer Adam Rooney, and bring a student’s perspective to our games. Through this I discovered my passion for announcing and want to share my experience with you.  

Each game I see the perimeter of the field from high up. When I’m there, I hear the inner workings of the game: all of the coaches talking to the players, yelling, screaming and calling out their plays to the players while they are in the huddle. Seeing our team score touchdowns and the crowd’s high spirits keeps a smile on my face. The crowd wouldn’t have been able to cheer the team on without our cheerleaders, we always give them shoutouts. 

I have my own podcast where I report on the sports world; my goal is to report on trending sports topics each week. 

Even though this is my first year being involved, I feel like it’s deepened my love for sports and the community. I don’t announce at away games, but I still go out and support. I can’t wait to yell  “Smithtown East with a 50 yard pass which leads to a East touchdown” over the speakers again and see the viewers cheer, this is the beauty of everyone hearing your voice. 

Unfortunately graduation will be coming soon and I will be leaving this amazing position. I’m grateful to have been given the opportunity to be in the perspective of an announcer. It’s my hope that once I graduate, someone will take the role and live up to the moment because that’s what that moment did for me.