Focus On Film - CD Panthers: The Marathon
Today, we revisit CD Panthers: The Marathon. This film took a look at the historic and beloved CD Panthers youth football and cheer program, which has been positively impacting the lives of children in the Central District for decades. We set out to create this film following the tragic death of D’Vonne Pickett Jr., who served as the head coach of the program’s 6u team, and it quickly became one of our favorite films to have worked on. Telling the story not only of D’Vonne’s impact but of the youth and other coaches involved with the team and program was a beautiful and fitting tribute to a man who gave so much. This film was produced by Ronnel Moore.
This film, produced as a gift to the Pickett family and the CD Panther Football and Cheer program, honors and uplifts the contributions Pickett made to the team and the community as a whole. It premiered at Climate Pledge Arena during the Memorial Service held for Pickett, following a speech from Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell.
The film was created by a Converge Media crew dedicated to telling the story of the program and highlighting those who make it great. You can find the full list of credits below:
Produced by Ronnel Moore
Directed and Edited by Brady McAtee
Additional Camera by Francisco Lopez
Additional Camera by Proofntheplay
Audio by Besa Gordon and Omari Salisbury
Research by Omari Salisbury
“Working on this film was such an honor,” McAtee said. “It was inspiring to see the love the community has for D’Vonne and the program in general, and telling this story was truly special.”
The CD Panthers provide opportunities for over 250 children in the community to play football, and has become a staple in the community. You can learn more and support the program here.
Photos by Susan Fried on behalf of Converge Media.
