For this assignment, I chose Instagram as my platform because it reflects how sports culture is experienced today — visually, instantly, and emotionally. My persona, titled “Behind the Bench,” highlights the often-unseen side of collegiate athletics: the media work, preparation, and leadership that shape women’s basketball programs.

Rather than centering my persona on being a fan, I wanted to showcase my real-life involvement in sports. My posts focus on storytelling, visibility, and the strategic effort behind every piece of content.

The Strategy Behind the Posts

Each post was created intentionally. Game-day graphics emphasize preparation and excellence. Behind-the-scenes editing photos highlight the work that audiences rarely see. Leadership-focused captions reinforce the importance of representation in women’s athletics.

I was mindful that sports media does more than entertain — it shapes perception. The way athletes are framed, promoted, and discussed influences how audiences value them. Through this persona, I positioned myself not just as a content creator but as someone contributing to culture within sports.

https://www.instagram.com/_capturedbylee/?hl=en

Representation, Leadership, and Visibility

A key focus of my persona is visibility in women’s sports. Media coverage directly impacts recognition, opportunity, and growth. By highlighting women’s basketball, I aim to reinforce that these programs deserve consistent attention and professional storytelling.

I also included reflective moments — such as empty gyms or preparation shots — to humanize the work that supports athletes. Sports are often viewed only through competition, but they are also spaces of discipline, culture-building, and leadership.

More Than Content — Building Culture

Ultimately, this persona reflects who I am both online and offline: someone committed to excellence in sports media and passionate about elevating women’s athletics. Social media is more than a highlight reel — it is a platform for influence.

Through “Behind the Bench,” I aimed to demonstrate that the work behind the scenes matters just as much as what happens on the court. The stories we tell in sports shape how the game — and the people in it — are valued.