Lupe and Selina Play Through the Storm

“Let’s go over your talking points before this interview.” Dana Osborn managed the scripts for Lupe’s short remarks and for the longer speeches that were a part of the promotional plan. The athletics director had become a prominent campus personality. The local country club hosted her for an elaborate luncheon before one videotaping. Lupe did not recognize anyone else in attendance and marveled at the swanky environment that was only three miles from her little apartment.

A new schedule of interviews, photo shoots, and speaking invitations constantly pressured Lupe. The public regarded her accomplishments in sports leadership from her humble beginnings as a “rising star” phenomenon.

Her newfound fame aroused Derek Unger’s envy. His counter campaign included inviting former football heroes to campus, conducting kids’ clinics for tag football, and even sponsoring pregame rallies that featured the cheerleaders. None of these events received the publicity Lupe’s softball team, the Waves, enjoyed on their road to Mexico.