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| Media credentials that earned many free meals. |
It's time to make this news common knowledge: Saturday marks my last day as a sports reporter.
That's right. I am getting out of the game, so to speak, on Oct. 27.
I have enjoyed a good 10-year run as a sports journalist, the last six-plus years with the statewide New Hampshire Union Leader & Sunday News. I have worked with some of the most talented and dedicated reporters and editors in the state -- many of whom made a lasting impact on me professionally.
While my primary role at the newspaper has been beat writer for NHIAA football, hockey and lacrosse, the athletes and teams I had the pleasure to cover extended far beyond the world of high school sports.
But this post isn't intended to look back. This post is intended to close a chapter in my professional life, allowing me to start a new one.
Certainly, it's no secret that the newspaper industry is undergoing a drastic change. Truth be told, my priorities have changed, too.
After a lengthy search for a new challenge, an opportunity far different from covering sports surfaced. It's an opportunity that I am excited to take on.
Therefore, my Saturday co-hosting duties on WGIR-AM 610's "N.H. High School Sports Show" (7-9 a.m.) will also come to an end this week.
As for this blog, I will keep it live for the immediate future. But it won't be updated.
So, I'd like to thank all of the loyal and frequent visitors of New Hampshire GameDay.
In short time, you have made this site a popular destination. The proof is in the page views, nearly 120,000 since the launch in January 2011.
People often ask, "Which NHIAA sport, of the three you cover, is your favorite?"
It probably comes as no surprise that it's football. The popularity is unmatched. And fewer things, as a reporter, are more rewarding than knowing your work is widely read.
Hockey and lacrosse, however, have a special place in my heart. They are tremendous sports deserving of more attention. I took great satisfaction hearing from coaches, parents and players that they enjoyed this blog for a simple reason.
There was nothing like it in New Hampshire.
Regarding my work at the Union Leader, I am extremely proud of it. I have my supporters and my critics, factions of readers who I always believed were equally valuable.
My first sports editor told me years ago that, "Whether readers agree or disagree with what you write, at least they're reading your stories."
So, I thank every reader who has made this job challenging, fun and rewarding. I have always taken great pride in serving as a trusted source of accurate, informative information.
Good luck to the athletes competing for the remainder of this season -- and in the campaigns to come.
-MT
