Gridiron Heroes: Behind the scenes look with UTRGV's equipment manager
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Zach Waller is in his first season as the equipment manager for University of Texas Rio Grande Valley football and his attention to detail shapes everything the team puts on.
Waller said his eye for gear started young, watching NFL games and picking up on things others might miss.
"I always noticed the cool little pieces of equipment. I always noticed like, hey, this guy is wearing a new helmet this week," Waller said.
That skill carried him through assistant equipment roles at the college and professional levels before landing him his current job with UTRGV.
"When we pay attention to detail and take pride of our work, it shows up on the field. It shows up in practice. It shows up in those players," Waller said.
On practice days, Waller checks that all team equipment is functional and ready for use. He also asks players for feedback as they try on their gear, keeping comfort and safety as his top priorities.
When fitting shoulder pads, he looks for specific markers to make sure each player is protected.
"This pad is what a lot of people go off of. It should be covering the AC joint. So your AC joint is right about there. That's why I have him lift their arms up. Look for the AC joint, which shows itself off whenever you put your arms up. So right now I got half-inch on there. Cool. They fit," Waller said.
On game days, Waller and his team pack and ship all gear to the stadium.
"The players and the coaches are the most important part. Like, they're here and we're here to serve them. That service aspect is like what I take pride in," Waller said.
His favorite part of the job is being around the players and coaches and getting their appreciation for the work he and his team put in.
"They know that some things don't get done without us. So them showing appreciation is a big deal," Waller said.
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