Bella Ortiz ’27 Finds a New Way to Stay in the Game A swimming injury led the strategic communication major to visual storytelling — and a fast-paced role with the FIFA Host Broadcast (HB) Intern Programme at SoFi Stadium.

During FIFA World Cup matches at SoFi Stadium, Bella Ortiz ’27 shuttled memory cards from a 360-degree camera operator to the production compound, where she uploaded and clipped footage for editors. 

After Spain scored during one match, Ortiz collected the footage and started back to the compound. Then Spain scored again.  

Ortiz turned around and headed back to collect the latest memory card. Editors needed the footage immediately. 

“In sports, it’s very unpredictable,” said Ortiz, a strategic communication major with minors in visual journalism and public relations. “If you’re in a match and something happens, you need to get it up immediately.” 

Ortiz participated in the FIFA Host Broadcast (HB) Intern Programme, working all eight matches at SoFi Stadium. She prepared footage for editors and operated the Insta360 camera during three matches.

 Her path into sports media began with an injury. 

Ortiz came to Chapman University as a swimmer, but a lower back injury during her first year kept her from participating as fully as she had hoped. Looking for another way to contribute, she began helping with the team’s social media and taught herself photography and Adobe Creative Suite. 

Photography gave her a new way to stay connected to sports. Through the student-run Chapman Sports Broadcast Network (CSBN), Ortiz began photographing football games and learning from more experienced students. 

“Everyone over at CSBN is so kind and welcoming, and they want to help you,” Ortiz said. 

Her coursework helped her build on those skills. A public relations course strengthened her ability to communicate clearly and accurately, while a sports journalism course taught her how to find the details that make a story compelling.  

At SoFi Stadium, assignments and priorities changed quickly. Keeping the camera operator, editors and managers informed was essential. 

The experience reinforced the value of clear communication and of pursuing opportunities before feeling fully prepared. 

“There is always someone who was in your shoes and wants to help,” Ortiz said. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions or reach out.”