The legacy of Niagara College’s Broadcasting – Radio, Television, and Film (BRTF) program came to life as past, present, and future students joined forces to power the first-ever livestream of the Ontario Parasport Games in Niagara.
From May 30 to June 1, current BRTF students, program alumni, and aspiring broadcasters from Saint Francis Catholic Secondary School in St. Catharines formed the crew that would deliver live coverage of the Games on CBC Gem.
“It was an amazing event that we were proud to be the first-ever to broadcast,” said BRTF program coordinator Dutch Vandenberg. “Building sport is close to my heart and I am thrilled we were able to tackle this and provide coverage for these incredibly inspiring athletes.”
The 44th annual Games, presented by Sport Niagara, drew over 400 athletes to compete in 11 sports.
NC’s crew of 20 – 15 students and five grads – covered many competitions including sledge hockey, wheelchair basketball, boccia ball, para-athletics, para swimming, sit volleyball and a crowd favourite – goal ball.
The College is no stranger to covering complex sports events, having led the livestream coverage of the Niagara 2022 Canada Summer Games, 2024 World Rowing Championships, Henley Regatta, and more.
“The students and faculty of Niagara College and its Broadcast program, once again, demonstrated professionalism and creativity by transforming the Niagara 2025 Ontario Parasport Games into a platform for both sport and social impact,” said Dan Kennedy, Executive Director of Sport Niagara. “Their coverage provided an invaluable opportunity for hands-on learning while simultaneously giving athletes the recognition they deserve. It’s a shining example of how education, media, and community engagement can come together to support inclusive sport in Niagara.”
NC alum duo lead the charge
Abby Fillipov
The crew was led by the experience of 2024 alum Abby Filipov and Harry Lengyel, both from St. Catharines and now working for Dome Productions.
Lengyel, a Broadcast Engineer, and Filipov, an Engineer and Maintenance Technician, were proud to lead the NC crew and share their experiences in the field.
“Proud grads give back,” said Lengyel, crediting the sentiment to Vandenberg.
“I remember what is was like to be in second-and-third-year, absolutely terrified of where I would go after graduating and what the future might hold,” said Lengyel. “I hoped to be able to ease some of the fears I imagine current students are also experiencing. The world of TV is an intimidating place, but it’s also incredibly rewarding, and offers once-in-a-lifetime adventures for those who work hard.”
Harry Lengyel (right) with Dutch Vandenberg (left).
The Games struck a chord with Filipov, who recently covered the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta.
“The Ontario Parasport Games mean a lot to me personally, as I have a family friend that competes,” she said. “The impact of broadcasting this event is so much greater than any of us realize. It makes me proud to know that I graduated from a college that frequently supports opportunities like this.”
Mature student makes a big move to follow his passion
Brendan Beilman
First-year student Brendan Beilman served as the crew’s technical director for the opening ceremonies and Saturday’s events, as well as the replay operator for the bronze/gold medal games for sledge hockey.
At 30 years old, Beilman, an audio engineer in music production, made the move from Vancouver to Welland to pursue his passion for sport broadcasting.
“I always had an interest in live sports production but did not know how to break into the industry,” said Beilman. “Niagara College stood out as one of the better programs for this field in the country.”
“Working the Parasport games was an amazing experience,” said Beilman. “I never expected to have these chances this soon into the program at the College. I am absolutely loving the program and attending NC so far.”
High school students get head-start for college
The most junior members of the crew included six grade 12 students from Saint Francis Catholic Secondary School in St. Catharines, four of which will begin their studies at NC in the fall: Jack Kruchka, Rahaf Mohamed, Taiya Ovalle and Aidyn Nagel.
The hands-on learning opportunity was coordinated by their technology teacher, Stephen Payne, a 1988 BRTF alum.
Payne, a former news broadcaster-turned-educator, connected with Vandenberg more than a decade ago, a relationship that has since created valuable opportunities for Saint Francis students.
Aidyn Nagel (middle) with Dr. Chris McGrath, NC’s Vice-President of Students (left) and Ali Ryder, Outreach and Education Coordinator.
“Dutch is a great friend to have, and it’s a really beneficial relationship that allows my kids to get real experience in a professional organization,” said Payne. “The level of work Dutch is doing blows any other college out of the water, and the students really appreciate the opportunities.”
Nagel, a grade 12 student bound for NC in the fall, appreciated getting exposure to the equipment they will use in the fall at NC.
“The experience was really amazing, as I’m going into broadcasting myself,” said Nagel, who was recently surprised with a scholarship to NC.
“I’m very excited to join the program and learn even more about presenting. My scholarship is also a very big part of my excitement!”
As an educator, Payne underscores the value of a college education.
“Parents need to realize that College is amazing, providing hands-on learning which is what employers really want. Employers want people who can ‘do’ right off the hop. Niagara College does that in spades.”
Payne reflected fondly on his own time at NC.
“You’re treated like a person; it’s a culture that cares.”
