As a PA announcer, I have many tips for announcing, especially while using my Stretto Power Wheelchair with iLevel® technology. My iLevel Power Chair has changed the game for me when it comes to announcing. So, I want to share with others how you can use your power wheelchair effectively when announcing sports, performing or public speaking.
The Best Way to Hold the Microphone
The first tip is to use your power wheelchair to hold your microphone. Currently, I don’t have much strength in my arms, so holding a microphone for countless hours is hard to do. I have a mic stand which hooks onto the back and wraps around my power chair so I can announce without the physical strain. My Stretto serves as my arms and has made the announcing process easier. If you cannot buy modifications through Amazon or other online stores, putting your microphone in your cupholder is another option.
Use Power Seat Elevation on Your Wheelchair
My second tip is to use iLevel when observing the action. The primary sport I announce is robotics, so being able to elevate to see the fields where the competition is has been a game-changer. My Stretto with iLevel allows me to be in the action by having a front-row seat to the festivities.
When I announced women’s soccer in high school, the press box had a long desk that was hard to see over when I was in the lowered position. So, I elevated above the desk using iLevel and was right back in the game.
Maneuver Your Wheelchair to See Everything
My last tip is to use iLevel to efficiently maneuver and position to view the activities. When announcing robotics, we usually have four fields operating simultaneously. So, having the ability to turn my wheelchair a full 360 degrees allows me to see multiple areas at once. This has made announcing easier and more fun because I can report on two matches at the same time. If one team isn’t scoring as much, I can see what else is going on by switching between matches.
These tips have been developed through trial and error, yet finding what works is critical. I no longer worry about my arms giving out from the stress of holding a microphone. Announcing has become a passion of mine. iLevel has allowed me to continue to live fully and independently by doing what I love.
About Bryson Foster: Bryson is a Friend of Quantum and lives in North Carolina. He advocates and raises funds for the development of treatments for muscular dystrophy. He loves sports and cheers for his favorite basketball team, the North Carolina Tar Heels. Click here to learn more about Bryson.
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