Ever since I was a little girl, I have loved the movie “Remember the Titans.” Each time I watch the movie, I leave energized, amped up and with a few less friends…I can quote every single line in the movie, and it’s not a crowd pleaser among peers.
So, why do I love it so much? It’s real. It is a true story of two different football programs joining together to make a championship team, defying cultural and racial differences central to the 70’s. The players have a difficult time forming a cohesive team — and an even harder time forming friendships. But, thanks to the leadership of two influential players, Julius Campbell and Gerry Bertier, the team eventually comes together, forming a close, inseparable bond.
The moment that sparks this bond is at summer training camp. Both the offense and defense are intermixed with players from each original football program; the sides are starting to learn how to play and work together. Towards the end of the scrimmage, the defense makes a great play thanks to Julius Campbell. Gerry Bertier looks at Campbell and screams, “Left side!” Campbell, looking up and realizing his teammate is actually excited for him, yells back “Strong side!” The two go back and forth, screaming and pumping each other up. The bond is formed, and the two are on a mission to bring the team together.
As you might expect, I apply these “Remember the Titans” moments to any and all areas of life. Since interning at Stone Ward, I have felt this “left side, strong side!” camaraderie between the brand management team and creative team many times. Despite each side’s unique strengths, both form a cohesive, hardworking team.
When tasked with a project for a client, it is a group effort. The brand management department works with the client to understand the vision, and the creative team brings the vision to realization. Both departments work closely together as a team. However, in my opinion, the “left side, strong side!” moment truly happens when the creative is published. When the brand management department receives the final piece, they share it with the creatives, and both sides celebrate all the hard work put into that one item. Seeing both sides’ faces light up with pride in the finished product is incredible. Efforts are realized, and the bond between the departments grows stronger and fonder.
As an intern this summer, it has been so encouraging to see the positive relationships within the agency. Throughout the entire creative process, there is support, understanding, laughter and a lot of fun. The bond is strong, and it is contagious. Needless to say, I have enjoyed my experience thus far, partly because I am a sucker for a “Remember the Titans” moment, but mostly because I am an even bigger sucker for good ole, warm-fuzzy, camaraderie.
