The Man Behind RTC
By: Willow Harrington
There are many sporting events that happen throughout the school year, and sometimes you
just can’t make it to watch. Years before, if you couldn’t come then you would just have to miss
out, but now you can tune in to RTCTV4.
RTC, or Rochester Television Company, is set up among different schools to broadcast the
school’s home sporting events. Each school can stream the event on the IHSAA app or website
for the viewers at home. RTC for Culver Community Middle High School is run by Mr. Croy, who
is assisted by sophomore Tyler Siddall.
During an event, Mr. Croy runs the broadcast, which consists of him giving a play by play of
the game. Tyler runs the cameras, which are constantly moving with the action down on the
court or field.
“We have a season schedule for football, basketball and wrestling, and Mr. Croy and I go over
it and see what games we can do and who can do them,” said Tyler. “Before those games, I get
the equipment and set up for the game. Then, on those given days, I show up either at the
press box or the second floor of the gym.”
These two people run the whole stream during all home events for the people who want to
watch at home. This is a big investment, games can go on for a long time, especially if it is an
intense match up.
“It’s tiring more than anything else,” said Tyler Siddall. “I’m the one setting up and running
around to get things done.”
Tyler does a number of things beforehand as well, to help make sure everything is ready for
that night’s event. He has to set up all the equipment and during the event he has to stand and
direct the camera to the focus of the event.
Though running the whole thing alone isn’t too difficult for Tyler, broadcasting is always in
need of other students to help. A lot of work goes into broadcasting sporting events,and it would
be easier with more students there.
“I would definitely recommend others to join the RTC team,” said Tyler. “Especially if you like
broadcasting.”
If a student has even a remote interest in broadcasting, they should join the class and try it out
now while they’re in high school.
“The fact that we offer broadcasting as an option in high school for students to try is so cool
because this is something that could be a full time career,” said career coach Mr. Maes. “I’m a
big advocate for if you think you will like it try it because either you’ll love it or you won’t. And if
you don’t like it, you won’t have to waste time wondering if you would like it.”
