There's only one appropriate way for me to begin this final column: by staring blankly at a computer screen for an hour and a half trying to sculpt my first few words and sentences. This has been the process for nearly four years. Why would I stray from it now?
Past, and current editors have labeled this as a problem. I call it attention to detail. As I once told former sports editor Luke Brietzke, 'Rome wasn't built in a day.' You know, the saying is true; it wasn't. From what Wikipedia tells me, it took a pretty darn long time (and Editor in Chief Sharon Leff says that site isn't reputable; please).
Speaking of historical empires, I will greatly miss Towson's athletic department. I've been able to speak to coaches and players whenever I pleased. I've been able roam the sidelines of football games and sit in the press row at college basketball tournaments. Granted, it helps when you get press passes for sporting events. But I'm convinced anyone could meander onto the field at Johnny Unitas Stadium mid-game and start a bonfire at the 50-yard line without anyone batting an eye.
But the small-school operation doesn't necessarily mean there are only small-school story opportunities. I've interviewed big-time agents, spoken to NFL scouts, interviewed Philadelphia Eagle Brian Westbrook, covered the recently-drafted Jermon Bushrod and an aspiring NBA player in Gary Neal. I have Mel Kiper Jr., draft expert and super agent Drew Rosenhaus' numbers in my cell phone. Have I actually spoken to either? Who cares.
After a while, though, you learn to appreciate your relationships with the lesser-covered teams and athletes because they are the ones who appreciate your work the most. My most enjoyable experience was covering the volleyball team this past fall. In my three years, I have seen their transition from first-time conference champions, to a youth-filled squad in search of its identity under a first-year coach. They know I'm looking out for their best interests, which in turn makes them more willing to talk. It's about developing relationships with these people. If you don't, you'll never get the best story ideas and inside information.
But at the end of the day, I've always tried to be true to the players and coaches. True to their words, and true to their feelings. Whether it is in stories or columns, it was never my intention to ruffle feathers. That wasn't my job. My job was to paint an accurate picture. With columns and editorials, it was to be true to my beliefs and myself. It wasn't my intention to anger people because regardless of what you say, someone will always disagree. It's just human nature.
So thanks to everyone who has given me something to write about. To former and current athletic directors Wayne Edwards and Mike Hermann for always looking out for the best interests of the department. Women's lacrosse coach Missy Doherty for being the best coach a first-time beat writer could ask for. Volleyball coach Paul Koncir for always giving me the story far beyond the box score, and in a more intelligent and philosophical manner than any coach I have ever spoken to. Men's basketball coach Pat Kennedy, women's basketball coach Joe Mathews and football coach Gordy Combs for always stopping to talk. To student-athletes Ally Perko, Maddie Haseltine, Jon Pease, Shannon Witzel and any others who have allowed me to delve into their lives for feature stories. And to Neal and Bushrod for letting me to inquire on their experiences as they seek to continue their careers beyond Towson.
I'm finally finished. Thanks for reading.
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