New documentary series showcases Fort Wayne’s high school athletes

Long Takes Media, a new Fort Wayne-based media production company, is looking to make waves in the world of sports content creation. 

Founded in 2022 by brothers Aaron Voglewede, Brandon Voglewede, and Cam Voglewede, as well as brothers Marqual Holley and Dre Muhammad, they’re focused on humanizing athletes and digging deeper by asking questions like, “Who are these athletes beyond their extraordinary abilities?” and “What adversities do they face?”

The team behind Long Takes Media is a unique combination of talents and experiences. The Volgewede brothers are co-founders of Lofthouse Films, bringing their expertise in storytelling to the table.

Dre Muhammad is a former athlete himself, with a brief stint in the NFL. Now, he’s focused on helping the youth as the founder of Traction Athletic Performance. Much like Long Takes Media is aiming to showcase who these athletes are beyond their abilities, Muhammad’s organization’s goal is to empower athletes beyond sports, using holistic training. Muhammad has trained many Fort Wayne athletes who have now been drafted by the NFL.

Marqual Holley, Muhammad’s brother, is also a former athlete. His expertise in sports videography and experiences working alongside star athletes, witnessing the physical and mental challenges they face, gives him the distinct opportunity to provide insight and authenticity to the human stories within sports.

The team is starting with stories right here in Fort Wayne. “The New North” is a documentary series, which follows local high school athletes on track to enter Division I sports programs and with the potential to be drafted by the major leagues later on.

In episodes 45-60 minutes long, the series aims to showcase the raw talents of local athletes, exploring their aspirations and abilities, while providing insight into the vibrant sports culture found in Northeast Indiana.

“This groundbreaking series is a testament to the passion we have for our hometown, as we strive to showcase the unparalleled talents and skill levels that exist within our community,” says Brandon Voglewede.

“The New North” is specifically focused on Northside High School’s football team, highlighting Tae Johnson, a standout player committed to the University of Notre Dame. Aaron Voglewede says they feel strongly about the athletic scene here in Fort Wayne, especially in football. 

He also says this is an opportunity to put Fort Wayne athletes on the map by showcasing them in a product that rivals the quality of series found on streaming platforms like HBO and Netflix.

You can find “The New North” on Youtube.
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Read more articles by Brittany Smith.

Brittany Smith is Input Fort Wayne's Managing Editor. Previously she served as Assistant Editor and participated in the College Input Program. She also volunteers for Northeast Indiana Public Radio.