Melody L.
George P. recently filmed an Adidas commercial in Irvine, CA.
At Day Creek Intermediate School, seventh graders usually spend their days juggling homework and afterschool sports. But for 12-year-old George P., one school day looked quite a bit different. Instead of sitting in class, George was in Irvine under the bright lights of a professional studio, under contract with Adidas, filming a commercial with one of the world’s most recognizable sportswear brands.
The opportunity didn’t come without hesitation. “At first I didn’t really want to do it,” George said. “And then I realized it was a fun experience.”
The encounter began after a little motivation at home. George’s mom encouraged him to audition, helping him send in videos and photos that followed the director’s instructions. Days later, an emailed confirmation arrived. George had been chosen.
“I was excited,” George said. “It’s a little bit nerve racking; it’s a little bit scary. Maybe I wouldn’t know anybody there, and I could mess up a shooting.”
His 7th grade math and science teacher, Mrs. Mares heard the news once George’s mom informed her that he’d be missing class. While she may not know the ins and outs of modeling, Mrs. Mares wasn’t surprised by her student’s success.
“He is easy-going and very eager to complete what needs to be accomplished,” Mrs. Mares said.
The shoot itself was no small task. George joined three other teens, spending eight hours in Adidas apparel. Though he didn’t know the others beforehand, the group quickly worked together to create striking shots.
“I didn’t know them, but there were two girls and one other boy,” George said. “[We were] talking with each other, seeing the studio, and then taking pictures.”
This wasn’t George’s first time in front of a camera, as he has done ads before for brands such as Pacsun and Polo. That prior experience has provided him with confidence, though he has remained humble through his success. George chose not to broadcast his experience with Adidas too widely, uncertain how classmates might respond.
Still, his friend Nathaniel H. was nothing but supportive. “He told me, but he didn’t want people to know,” Nathaniel H. said. “It’s cool; you can be on TV.”
Between outfit changes and photos, the day wasn’t all work. George and the others spent time at an arcade, making the long hours feel more like an adventure. Looking back, he called the day unforgettable.
“It felt fun; it was a good experience,” he said with a smile.
George’s time with Adidas was more than just a photoshoot; it was an example of taking the opportunity to do something that most students can only dream about. What began as uncertainty turned into a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. And for this DCIS seventh grader, it’s likely the beginning of many media-related stories to come.