Now that winter sports have started, students and staff find themselves reflecting on all of the people who have given their all to create these exciting memories, and are eager for the ones to come. During the any sports games, there are so many roles that contribute to the court and sidelines to give it that beloved home-like feeling.
Although he can be quiet, a special and truly unrecognized voice takes his role behind the camera: Steve Peterson.
“When I am a photographer during football season, I always see Steve on the field,” junior Kaylee Coleman said. “He is always there.”
Steve Peterson, a photographer and sports news writer for two news platforms in Huntley, is always one to show up to the games. He has contributed to Huntley’s sports program with detailed and entertaining articles posted online for the community.
“Local journalism is hard to find these days, and we greatly appreciate the interest Mr. Peterson, My Huntley News, and My Sunday News have shown in covering what is happening in the district,” Huntley Public Engagement director Denise Barr said. “Mr. Peterson is always friendly, kind, and easy to work with.”
My Huntley News, associated and connected with My Sunday News, is a newspaper and website that updates residents on major news events from various Huntley areas. Many popular articles, mainly revolving around sports, are reported by Peterson.
With his recent articles including information and player features from cross country, volleyball, basketball and bowling, Peterson keeps the community appreciative of all Huntley sports, even after football season has ended.
“I think he is a great role model because if it is rainy or cold, he is always there,” Coleman said. “He always has a positive attitude even if we are losing by a lot.”
Peterson projects a leadership role when it comes to the student photographers who attend sporting events. Many view him as a professional that they can learn from and they appreciate that he is always open for any questions.
“Other photographers and I have spoken to him many times,” Coleman said. “He always has jokes to make about the game. If you do not know what is going on, you can always go to Steve.”
His positive attitude reflects across the athletic program when games are at their best, and even at their worst. He has grown his knowledge of sports over his time as a journalist, and he is always willing to help others understand it too.
Peterson has never missed being on the sidelines. He is a key person who people can look forward to seeing and count on.
“During my two years on the dance team, I have never not seen Steve on the sidelines,” sophomore Kaitlin Bowers said. “He is definitely someone people should look to for being counted on.”
Many of those throughout Huntley athletics, as well as the community overall, have not recognized Peterson for his efforts. Attending so many sports events, he shows up as a strong supporter, even behind a camera.
“Mr. Peterson’s passion for sports is contagious, and I have learned he is the ultimate Cubs fan,” Barr said. “We appreciate the stories Mr. Peterson and My Huntley News share about Hunley High School and Huntley 158 sports.”
Peterson, and the many other journalists on the field and court, will continue to make us proud with the inspiring sports articles they write so effortlessly. They truly make an impact on the community as they share so many events through their storytelling.
