Teen with heart condition sits in NFL broadcast booth for Chiefs game

Justin Pogorzala sat in the broadcast booth at Hard Rock Stadium this week, wearing a headset and watching the action from the same vantage point as professional announcers. The 15-year-old from Valrico, Florida, participated in the experience during a matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Miami Dolphins.

Pogorzala, who requires an implantable cardiac defibrillator to protect against sudden cardiac arrest, previously competed in sports before his diagnosis altered his athletic plans. He has since shifted his focus to play-by-play broadcasting, citing CBS Sports announcer Kevin Harlan as his primary inspiration.

The wish, granted by Make-A-Wish Southern Florida, involved a multi-day visit to South Florida. Pogorzala spent time with Harlan, discussing the veteran broadcaster's career and the mechanics of an NFL broadcast. Harlan praised Pogorzala's knowledge of the game and his vocal tone, telling the teenager that he sees a promising future in the field.

Beyond the booth, Pogorzala met players on the field and watched an interview with Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes. He also received team gear and memorabilia from the visiting and home clubs. The visit included a chauffeur-driven limousine for his family's arrival and departure from the stadium.

The event required coordination from several organizations. CBS, the NFL, the Kansas City Chiefs, and the Miami Dolphins all contributed to the behind-the-scenes access that allowed Pogorzala and his family to experience the game from the inside.

Pogorzala described the experience as a way to stay connected to sports he loves. The visit provided him with direct feedback from a professional in his chosen field and a look at the logistics of live television production.

Make-A-Wish Southern Florida released photos and video from the visit to share the details of the experience. The materials credit the organization for documentation of the day's events.