Soul of 78: Zak McCullar

Sports Picker Extraordinaire

Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Images by Ryan McGill

Zak McCullar was only five years old when he began accompanying his father, Scott, to high school football games across Alabama. While other young children at the games were beside the stands, playing with friends and oblivious to the goings-on beneath the Friday night lights, Zak was at his father's side in the press box, a press badge hanging around his neck from a lanyard almost as long as his torso. After plays, Zak would scribble notes on his notepad, trying to understand the intricacies of the game he loved.

That same year, Zak asked his dad to post a video of him on Facebook sharing his picks for the winners of that week's SEC football games. Though that video was only seen by Scott's online connections, his subsequent videos became a weekly occurrence and soon began reaching a broader audience. His spot-on picks, which were then based solely on his gut feelings, became something that many listeners anticipated each week. Then, a radio station in Jackson, Alabama, started replaying Zak's picks on their morning show, leading to his first big break.

"In 2018, the Daily Mountain Eagle contacted us and proposed making my picks part of their production. It was basically a no-brainer to accept," Zak says. "I love sports and any opportunity to talk about sports. I eventually want to work in sports journalism, so that offer was a great first step toward that goal."

Because of his experience with the Eagle, Zak has had several opportunities to let his talent shine. Since then, he’s had his picks published in the print and online versions of the newspaper, he’s co-hosted Carbon Hill High School's sports review show, The Bulldog Briefing, he’s attended Walker County Media Days, and, most recently, he’s started a bi-weekly column in which he discusses current events in the larger world of sports.

Now 13, Zak is as well-spoken as many adults. He writes at a level far beyond his years and has social skills that those decades older than him would envy. He credits all of that to his experience with sports picking.

"Picking started as just a fun hobby, but it has become so much more for me,” Zak says. “I've been able to visit almost every stadium in the county, become more familiar with my community, and meet a lot of interesting people. I also have learned more about betting odds and statistics, and what goes into strategically picking a winner. I think it has helped me become a more well-rounded person and will benefit me well into my future."

One would be wise not to bet against Zak McCullar, because with his talent and determination, the odds for a successful future are in his favor.  78