Sorry it's late, I had a job interview!
1. Describe the importance of blogging to modern day journalism.
Blogging provides a different way of releasing information to the public. It is also a way for bloggers to express their opinions and artistic talents in ways traditional print and broadcast journalism cannot. It is unaffected by deadlines, ap style or traditional ethics. It is important because it is rapid information at your fingertips and provides a variety of commentary and view points not normally seen in traditional journalism.
2. If you are going to continue to blog, why? or Why not?
My blog is a way to pass the time. I may not continue this particular blog, but blogging will soon become an everyday aspect of my career and I look forward to it.
3. If you were to keep blogging, how will you change your blog in the future?
I will blog to conform my place of work. So the blog may change, but how I blog will stay the same.
Hockey Chart
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Here is my question for blogging.
Could what is posted on a personal blog affect a bloggers' employment in a negative way?
Monday, April 25, 2011
Solid Inaugural Season for Oklahoma City
The Oklahoma City Barons' inaugural season was a successful one to say the least. Despite a plethora of Edmonton Oilers call ups that left OKC scrounging for scorers, the Barons pulled together a young, scrappy roster and made a run for the playoffs.
The Barons turned their late season push into the first postseason berth in franchise history. They're one-for-one on that front, giving them hope for a bright future.
Oklahoma City lost to Hamilton on Sunday in game six of the opening Calder Cup series. The Bulldogs beat the Barons in the series four games to two and despite the series loss, there are some things OKC can take from it.
The Barons were by far the underdog.
Hamilton has coasted for much of the year and their goaltender Drew MacIntyre carried them on the home stretch to one of the American Hockey League's best late-season records. Their end of the year performance earned them the top-seed in the North division. But for much of the series, the Barons dictate the rate of play.
OKC learned to win at home.
A struggle for most of the season, winning at the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma City has become second nature to the Barons now. Oklahoma City finished strong at home and gave the fans something to cheer for.
Young Players are stepping up.
Rookies made their presence known leading up to the playoffs then took over games in the postseason. Players like Hunter Trembley, Mark Arcobello and Teemu Hartikainen dominated play at times down the stretch and it shows promise for a bright future.
The Barons turned their late season push into the first postseason berth in franchise history. They're one-for-one on that front, giving them hope for a bright future.
Oklahoma City lost to Hamilton on Sunday in game six of the opening Calder Cup series. The Bulldogs beat the Barons in the series four games to two and despite the series loss, there are some things OKC can take from it.
The Barons were by far the underdog.
Hamilton has coasted for much of the year and their goaltender Drew MacIntyre carried them on the home stretch to one of the American Hockey League's best late-season records. Their end of the year performance earned them the top-seed in the North division. But for much of the series, the Barons dictate the rate of play.
OKC learned to win at home.
A struggle for most of the season, winning at the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma City has become second nature to the Barons now. Oklahoma City finished strong at home and gave the fans something to cheer for.
Young Players are stepping up.
Rookies made their presence known leading up to the playoffs then took over games in the postseason. Players like Hunter Trembley, Mark Arcobello and Teemu Hartikainen dominated play at times down the stretch and it shows promise for a bright future.
Sitting Down with Krishnaswami
Sridhar Krishnaswami, a professor and journalist from India came to speak to our Blogging for Journalists class last week and delivered a wealth of knowledge on various topics.
Krishnaswami told us, "I don't blog, I don't tweet and I am a boring guy."
But Krishnaswami was far from boring in my eyes. Krishnaswami has seen many things in his time as a traditional journalist and he has made a living finding information and delivering it to the people.
Krishnaswami says that blogging has made many journalists, "lazy". I can agree on that point. There are so many places to go for information and the vast majority of them can be used without even getting off the couch.
What I found most interesting about our guest was how he talked about the flourishing Mass Communications outlook in his home country. He touched on the fact that print journalism is booming in India and broadcasting is also on the rise.
I feel this is part of the reason that Krishnaswami isn't infatuated with blogging. In someways, India is way behind the times with journalism. They are at a stage long since forgotten in America. Where newspapers could rely on print and didn't have the internet shadow looming over them.
Krishnaswami received his bachelor's in India, then went to Ohio to obtain his Masters and Doctorate degrees, spending time at Ohio University and the University of Miami-Ohio. He then traveled the world as a foreign correspondent for an India newspaper and now teaches.
He has a wealth of experience on a global level.
Perhaps his most useful advice came when he cautioned the next generation of bloggers. Krishnaswami told us, not to compromise ethics.
He also told our class that a good blogger needs to know the lay of their land. A tourist staying in a foreign country and blogging about the strife their without fully understanding the country they are in, is not the best source of information.
I enjoyed what Krishnaswami had to say and hope to sit in on a lecture of his sometime in the future. Although is is not the biggest blogging advocate, he knew enough about it and the journalism backbone of blogging to present an interesting talk.
Krishnaswami told us, "I don't blog, I don't tweet and I am a boring guy."
But Krishnaswami was far from boring in my eyes. Krishnaswami has seen many things in his time as a traditional journalist and he has made a living finding information and delivering it to the people.
Krishnaswami says that blogging has made many journalists, "lazy". I can agree on that point. There are so many places to go for information and the vast majority of them can be used without even getting off the couch.
What I found most interesting about our guest was how he talked about the flourishing Mass Communications outlook in his home country. He touched on the fact that print journalism is booming in India and broadcasting is also on the rise.
I feel this is part of the reason that Krishnaswami isn't infatuated with blogging. In someways, India is way behind the times with journalism. They are at a stage long since forgotten in America. Where newspapers could rely on print and didn't have the internet shadow looming over them.
Krishnaswami received his bachelor's in India, then went to Ohio to obtain his Masters and Doctorate degrees, spending time at Ohio University and the University of Miami-Ohio. He then traveled the world as a foreign correspondent for an India newspaper and now teaches.
He has a wealth of experience on a global level.
Perhaps his most useful advice came when he cautioned the next generation of bloggers. Krishnaswami told us, not to compromise ethics.
He also told our class that a good blogger needs to know the lay of their land. A tourist staying in a foreign country and blogging about the strife their without fully understanding the country they are in, is not the best source of information.
I enjoyed what Krishnaswami had to say and hope to sit in on a lecture of his sometime in the future. Although is is not the biggest blogging advocate, he knew enough about it and the journalism backbone of blogging to present an interesting talk.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
My Top Five Games Called
A few weeks ago I attended the UCO hockey banquet and I was able to say my final farewells to the team. As I gave a short speech to the players and coaches, I ran through some of my favorite games to be a part of. Looking back on all the games I've called as the, self-proclaimed, "Voice of the Bronchos" there are a few that really stick out. These are my top five:
5. Sweep of Arizona State in 2011
Fighting for a playoff spot, the Bronchos needed wins against powerhouse and top ten foe Arizona State. The Sundevils swaggered into Edmond, Okla. like they owned the place but the Bronchos were the better team that weekend. UCO played two of the most complete games I've seen out of them and posted a 3-2 and 4-1 win.
4. Ohio Shootout
The Bronchos were facing a top ten opponent in Ohio in 2008. It was my first season with the Bronchos and my first call of a hockey shootout. I was unclear about some of the rules so it was a little shaky on my end. But I got the hang of it. Brian Thompson ended up scoring the winner on a beautiful top shelf play and UCO beat Ohio 4-3 in a shootout to strengthen the odds for their first ever playoff berth.
3. The Comeback
Very few games in real life turnout like something out of a Hollywood production. But the Bronchos' comeback against Penn State in the quarterfinals of the national playoffs was a thing of beauty. Penn State scored first at 2:12 of the opening period. Senior goaltender Justin Sgro recovered and turned away chance after chance by the Nittany Lions. The two massive crowds of fans of each team roared and cheered but everyone went silent when Nick Novak took the shot heard round the ACHA. Novak tied the game with just 1:29 left on the clock. Penn State was stunned and the Bronchos tasted blood. Jonathan Cannizzo scored 1:42 into the overtime period and the Bronchos moved on to the frozen four for the first time in school history with a 2-1 win over No. 2 Penn State.
2. First Round Thriller
My first experience of college playoff hockey came in the first round of the tournament last year when the rival Sooners took on UCO in a game that lived up to the hype. The goals were traded back and forth for much of the game before regulation ended in a 5-5 tie. The Bronchos had a large supporting cast in Chicago, IL cheering them on. The overtime period was dominated by the Sooners but the Bronchos kept with them, largely because of the outstanding play of goaltender Justin Sgro. The game went to double overtime, the Bronchos scored, the moment will last a lifetime.
1. Sooner Beatdown
I have nothing personal against OU. But broadcasting for their rivals the Bronchos can make me bias at times. I had never called a home win against OU in three years in the booth. It was senior night for the Bronchos and my last home game to call. The Bronchos stomped the Sooners 5-0 and I was treated to one of my best calls ever. It was a great night.
5. Sweep of Arizona State in 2011
Fighting for a playoff spot, the Bronchos needed wins against powerhouse and top ten foe Arizona State. The Sundevils swaggered into Edmond, Okla. like they owned the place but the Bronchos were the better team that weekend. UCO played two of the most complete games I've seen out of them and posted a 3-2 and 4-1 win.
4. Ohio Shootout
The Bronchos were facing a top ten opponent in Ohio in 2008. It was my first season with the Bronchos and my first call of a hockey shootout. I was unclear about some of the rules so it was a little shaky on my end. But I got the hang of it. Brian Thompson ended up scoring the winner on a beautiful top shelf play and UCO beat Ohio 4-3 in a shootout to strengthen the odds for their first ever playoff berth.
3. The Comeback
Very few games in real life turnout like something out of a Hollywood production. But the Bronchos' comeback against Penn State in the quarterfinals of the national playoffs was a thing of beauty. Penn State scored first at 2:12 of the opening period. Senior goaltender Justin Sgro recovered and turned away chance after chance by the Nittany Lions. The two massive crowds of fans of each team roared and cheered but everyone went silent when Nick Novak took the shot heard round the ACHA. Novak tied the game with just 1:29 left on the clock. Penn State was stunned and the Bronchos tasted blood. Jonathan Cannizzo scored 1:42 into the overtime period and the Bronchos moved on to the frozen four for the first time in school history with a 2-1 win over No. 2 Penn State.
2. First Round Thriller
My first experience of college playoff hockey came in the first round of the tournament last year when the rival Sooners took on UCO in a game that lived up to the hype. The goals were traded back and forth for much of the game before regulation ended in a 5-5 tie. The Bronchos had a large supporting cast in Chicago, IL cheering them on. The overtime period was dominated by the Sooners but the Bronchos kept with them, largely because of the outstanding play of goaltender Justin Sgro. The game went to double overtime, the Bronchos scored, the moment will last a lifetime.
1. Sooner Beatdown
I have nothing personal against OU. But broadcasting for their rivals the Bronchos can make me bias at times. I had never called a home win against OU in three years in the booth. It was senior night for the Bronchos and my last home game to call. The Bronchos stomped the Sooners 5-0 and I was treated to one of my best calls ever. It was a great night.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Oklahoma City Clinches First Playoff Berth
Last night the Barons extended their season, clinching a playoff spot with a 2-0 win over the Texas Stars.
Sunday's games will determine the Barons' seed and their first-round opponent, but with 91 standing points the Barons eliminated the three clubs chasing them.
Jeff Deslauriers recorded his third shutout in four games as OKC won their fourth straight. Deslauriers stopped 22 Texas shots.
Milan Kytnar scored first at 6:47 of the second frame on a flip shot near the net, assisted by Tanner House and Alex Plante. Kytnar has points in six straight games.
Colin McDonald scored his 41st of the season at 19:42 of the second period from Brad Moran and Mark Arcobello. McDonald is now tied for the league lead in goals scored with Hamilton's Nigel Dawes. Hamilton's regular season is over, and if McDonald can score tonight he'd have a real good chance at nabbing the league scoring title.
Sunday's games will determine the Barons' seed and their first-round opponent, but with 91 standing points the Barons eliminated the three clubs chasing them.
Jeff Deslauriers recorded his third shutout in four games as OKC won their fourth straight. Deslauriers stopped 22 Texas shots.
Milan Kytnar scored first at 6:47 of the second frame on a flip shot near the net, assisted by Tanner House and Alex Plante. Kytnar has points in six straight games.
Colin McDonald scored his 41st of the season at 19:42 of the second period from Brad Moran and Mark Arcobello. McDonald is now tied for the league lead in goals scored with Hamilton's Nigel Dawes. Hamilton's regular season is over, and if McDonald can score tonight he'd have a real good chance at nabbing the league scoring title.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Demo Tape
If you would be interested in contacting me for more information about a job interview or position, you can reach me at chrisdwescott@gmail.com.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
It's FRIDAY! FRIDAY! Who says hockey fans can't dance?
Enjoy this video. I don't think it needs any more of an introduction.
Voices: Rick Jeanneret
One of my favorite documentary shows is Voices. It runs (or ran) on NHL Network. It chronicles the play by play voices of the National Hockey League. My favorite episode is about my idol and inspiration for getting into a career in hockey. Rick Jeanneret of my hometown Buffalo Sabres. Watch it and I guarantee you'll enjoy it. It's "scary good!"
Determination Gets Hartikainen His First NHL Goal
Oklahoma City Barons forward on call up Teemu Hartikainen scores his first NHL goal with this crazy effort against Calgary. Check it out!
Fedun Returns to Princeton to Build Hovercraft
Edmonton native Taylor Fedun signed a two-year contract with the Oilers’ organization on March 8. The 6-1, 210 pound defenseman couldn’t be happier to get a chance with his childhood team.
“You’d hate to use a cliché but it really is a dream come true,” Fedun said. “To grow up in the city of Edmonton, to look up to the Oilers your entire life, to have the opportunity to be a part of the organization is something that I think is really special and one I’m really excited about.”
Fedun spent time with the Oklahoma City Barons of the American Hockey League, but has yet to appear in his first professional game. He was released from his ATO on March 23, and will return to Princeton University where he appeared in 127 games, recording 68 points (20-48-68) and 154 penalty minutes this past season.
Fedun’s best collegiate season came during his senior campaign, when he scored a career high 10 goals and added 12 assists in 29 games.
The blueliner is part of the Princeton Class of 2011 which will graduate as the winningest class in program history with 72 wins in four seasons. Fedun will also graduate as one of the more recognized defenseman in recent Princeton history.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Future Watch: Colten Teubert
Future Watch: Colten Teubert
Oilers' latest acquisition making an early impression in Oklahoma City
Thursday, 10.03.2011 / 12:50 PM / Future Watch
By Chris Wescott | Oklahoma City Barons
 | |
Colten Teubert (Photo by Steven Christy / OKC Barons). |
In his first game with the Barons last Friday, Teubert scored a first period goal against the Abbotsford Heat, the AHL affiliate of Edmonton’s rival the Calgary Flames. It seemed to be a foreshadowing of things to come.
Click HERE for full article
Monday, March 7, 2011
My Interview with AHL President and CEO Dave Andrews
First impression of Dave Andrews was, "what a nice guy."
The President and CEO of the American Hockey League didn't have to talk to me. Sure, I work for the Barons but I'm a 21 year old kid. Hardly a blip on his radar. But Mr. Andrews was a gentleman and made for an excellent interview. No wonder he's been running the league for 17 years. You can watch my interview with the league's top guy below.
The President and CEO of the American Hockey League didn't have to talk to me. Sure, I work for the Barons but I'm a 21 year old kid. Hardly a blip on his radar. But Mr. Andrews was a gentleman and made for an excellent interview. No wonder he's been running the league for 17 years. You can watch my interview with the league's top guy below.
My First NHL Article
I found out today that the Edmonton Oilers decided to use an article of mine on their website. It is the first time my work has been featured on the NHL level so it's exciting for me and I felt it deserved a blog post.
Here it is:
Zack Stortini cleared waivers and was assigned to the Oklahoma City Barons by the Edmonton Oilers on February 2. The change of scenery is not quite what the forward is used to lately.
Click HERE to read full article.
Here it is:
Stortini enjoying Oklahoma City
Monday, 07.03.2011 / 11:30 AM / Features
By Chris Wescott | Oklahoma City Barons
 | |
| Zack Stortini & the Barons vs. Abbotsford on Mar. 5, 2011 in Oklahoma City (Photo by Steve Christy / OKC Barons). |
Click HERE to read full article.
Barons Beat- New Kids on the Block
After trading for two young defensemen the Edmonton Oilers decided to send their newest prospects to Oklahoma City. I introduce the Barons fanbase to Colten Teubert and Kevin Montgomery in my latest episode of Barons Beat.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Don't Step on the Rug.
Hockey players are a superstitious breed.
Some only use a certain undershirt beneath their pads every game day because it is "lucky".
Some break or trade out sticks after scoring with them because their "mojo is spent".
But I had my run-in with a serious violation of hockey superstition a year ago.
I walked into the UCO hockey locker room prior to a game against a high-ranking opponent and without paying much attention to where I was stepping, continued into the center of the room.
I began to hear shouts, so I looked up from my roster sheets and saw several Broncho players waving their hands at me and shouting.
At this point I am thinking to myself, "They're saying 'hi' to me like always."
So I looked around and said, "What's up guys?"
That's when one of the UCO captains ran over to me and gently shoved me aside asking me if I knew what I was doing.
Without my knowing I had ignored the number one rule of hockey locker room ettiquette. I had stepped on the team logo rug on gameday.
Needless to say, UCO lost and I was to blame. The team got over it, but I'm not sure I have.
So if I've learned one thing from my short career in hockey it's this:
DON'T STEP ON THE RUG.
Some only use a certain undershirt beneath their pads every game day because it is "lucky".
Some break or trade out sticks after scoring with them because their "mojo is spent".
But I had my run-in with a serious violation of hockey superstition a year ago.
I walked into the UCO hockey locker room prior to a game against a high-ranking opponent and without paying much attention to where I was stepping, continued into the center of the room.
I began to hear shouts, so I looked up from my roster sheets and saw several Broncho players waving their hands at me and shouting.
At this point I am thinking to myself, "They're saying 'hi' to me like always."
So I looked around and said, "What's up guys?"
That's when one of the UCO captains ran over to me and gently shoved me aside asking me if I knew what I was doing.
Without my knowing I had ignored the number one rule of hockey locker room ettiquette. I had stepped on the team logo rug on gameday.
Needless to say, UCO lost and I was to blame. The team got over it, but I'm not sure I have.
So if I've learned one thing from my short career in hockey it's this:
DON'T STEP ON THE RUG.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Barons Affected by NHL Trades
Two major NHL trades on deadline day yesterday affected the Oklahoma City Barons of the American Hockey League in a big way.
The Edmonton Oilers organization traded Barons defenseman Shawn Belle to Colorado and acquired Kevin Montgomery from the Avalanche. Montgomery, incidentally, went to high school with me in Rochester, NY. I would expect a blog post on that shortly.
The Edmonton Oilers organization traded Barons defenseman Shawn Belle to Colorado and acquired Kevin Montgomery from the Avalanche. Montgomery, incidentally, went to high school with me in Rochester, NY. I would expect a blog post on that shortly.
In 51 games for Lake Erie of the AHL, Montgomery had 2 goals and 17 assists and was minus-2.
In the other deal, the Oilers acquired defenseman Colten Teubert and a pair of draft picks from the Los Angeles King for Dustin Penner.
Teubert has spent the season in the AHL with Manchester and recorded 2 goals and 8 assists and plus-7.
Teubert was the No. 13 overall pick by the Kings in 2008 NHL Entry Draft.
FARVÄL
Many of you are probably wondering what "Farval" means. It means goodbye in Swedish.
That's what we may be saying to Central Oklahoma Swedish forward Peter Ekholm who has told me that he may not be returning to UCO next season for personal reasons.
The freshman out of Kagerod, Sweden appeared in 29 games for the Bronchos this past season, scoring five goals and adding three assists.
He proved himself to be an asset on special teams, scoring three power play goals and one short handed goal.
If he doesn't return, the Bronchos would be down one promising young talent.
That's what we may be saying to Central Oklahoma Swedish forward Peter Ekholm who has told me that he may not be returning to UCO next season for personal reasons.
The freshman out of Kagerod, Sweden appeared in 29 games for the Bronchos this past season, scoring five goals and adding three assists.
He proved himself to be an asset on special teams, scoring three power play goals and one short handed goal.
If he doesn't return, the Bronchos would be down one promising young talent.
Barons Beat-Episode One
For the Oklahoma City Barons, I have begun to put up webisodes of "Barons Beat" to keep fans in the loop on what's going on in the world of the Barons. Here is episode one. It can also be viewed on okcbarons.com.
The Oklahoma City Barons are in a tight West Division race. As of February 28, OKC is tied for the fourth place in division with the Peoria Rivermen. Only six points separate the seventh place Chicago Wolves and first place Milwaukee Admirals. Here are the current point standings:
1. Milwaukee 76 points
2. Houston 75 points
3. Texas 73 points
4. Oklahoma City 71 points
5. Peoria 71 points
6. San Antonio 70 points
7. Chicago 70 points
8. Rockford 55 points
CLICK HERE FOR FULL STANDINGS
The Oklahoma City Barons are in a tight West Division race. As of February 28, OKC is tied for the fourth place in division with the Peoria Rivermen. Only six points separate the seventh place Chicago Wolves and first place Milwaukee Admirals. Here are the current point standings:
1. Milwaukee 76 points
2. Houston 75 points
3. Texas 73 points
4. Oklahoma City 71 points
5. Peoria 71 points
6. San Antonio 70 points
7. Chicago 70 points
8. Rockford 55 points
CLICK HERE FOR FULL STANDINGS
Monday, February 28, 2011
Final Thoughts From the Booth
I've put off writing this blog post for as long as I could.
Sometimes, when a good thing ends you don't want to accept it, so you put it off for a while but eventually you must face the music.
In this case, I'm speaking of my time as the University of Central Oklahoma hockey broadcaster.
Looking back on my final season, and the two previous years prior to this one, I can't help but think of the fond memories I have of my time with the bronze and blue.
But as I faded out the mics for the final time, I was left with some thoughts on the future of the UCO program. I won't bore my readers with a long list of stories and memories, but here are a few final thoughts from the broadcast booth.
Prospects are Bright:
The UCO Bronchos are in good hands with their coaching staff and current roster. When I watched the Bronchos miss the playoffs for the first time in three years the one thing that stuck out to me was that the program was stocked with young talent. Sadly that young talent didn't come together in time for the playoffs, but it is there none-the-less.
Freshmen like Donald Geary, Derek Mussey, Peter Ekholm, Anthony Knuth and Nick Holmes all show signs of being future stars for the Bronchos. If UCO could add some solid talent in this recruiting class, they'd be off to a running start for a return to the postseason.
An ACHA National Tournament in OKC may be more than a pipe dream:
One thing that could put the American Collegiate Hockey Association on a bigger map in the area is hosting a national tournament in the metro. In talking with people around the league as well as the UCO staff, it is quite evident that not only has the idea been passed around, but that there has been some serious thought to it. With the Oklahoma Sooners right down the highway, a national tournament in OKC is not out of the question. It would take a lot of support and work, but could go a long way in growing the sport here.
Class Act:
Lastly, before I begin to ramble, I would like to thank the UCO organization for being such a wonderful career launcher for me. But even more than that, the players and coaches have been close friends and family to me. I treasure the past three years and will always remain a Broncho for the rest of my days. I wish them nothing but the best of luck moving forward and know it is only a matter of time before the bronze and blue win it all.
Chomp 'em up Chos!
Sometimes, when a good thing ends you don't want to accept it, so you put it off for a while but eventually you must face the music.
In this case, I'm speaking of my time as the University of Central Oklahoma hockey broadcaster.
Looking back on my final season, and the two previous years prior to this one, I can't help but think of the fond memories I have of my time with the bronze and blue.
But as I faded out the mics for the final time, I was left with some thoughts on the future of the UCO program. I won't bore my readers with a long list of stories and memories, but here are a few final thoughts from the broadcast booth.
Prospects are Bright:
The UCO Bronchos are in good hands with their coaching staff and current roster. When I watched the Bronchos miss the playoffs for the first time in three years the one thing that stuck out to me was that the program was stocked with young talent. Sadly that young talent didn't come together in time for the playoffs, but it is there none-the-less.
Freshmen like Donald Geary, Derek Mussey, Peter Ekholm, Anthony Knuth and Nick Holmes all show signs of being future stars for the Bronchos. If UCO could add some solid talent in this recruiting class, they'd be off to a running start for a return to the postseason.
An ACHA National Tournament in OKC may be more than a pipe dream:
One thing that could put the American Collegiate Hockey Association on a bigger map in the area is hosting a national tournament in the metro. In talking with people around the league as well as the UCO staff, it is quite evident that not only has the idea been passed around, but that there has been some serious thought to it. With the Oklahoma Sooners right down the highway, a national tournament in OKC is not out of the question. It would take a lot of support and work, but could go a long way in growing the sport here.
Class Act:
Lastly, before I begin to ramble, I would like to thank the UCO organization for being such a wonderful career launcher for me. But even more than that, the players and coaches have been close friends and family to me. I treasure the past three years and will always remain a Broncho for the rest of my days. I wish them nothing but the best of luck moving forward and know it is only a matter of time before the bronze and blue win it all.
Chomp 'em up Chos!
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Barons' Defenseman Reaches Huge Milestone
Oklahoma City Barons' defenseman Bryan Helmer is a classy guy who just loves to play hockey.
I found that out when I first met him.
It must be odd for a 38-year-old professional hockey player to be pulled aside by a 21-year-old during his first game with a new team and forced to answer questions about a team he barely has had time to meet. Either that or it's just another day at the office.
But when I pulled Mr. Helmer aside that day to interview him after the first period of his first game here, I was rather pleased with the experience.
The defenseman has most likely seen it all, and if he hasn't seen it, he's probably heard of people that have seen it.
Helmer is in the latter end of an 18 year career that may be soon coming to a close. But not before he reaches a huge milestone.
Bryan will play in his 1,000th career American Hockey League game this Friday in Calgary.
1,000 games.
Now that is impressive.
“I’d love to get 1,000 games," Helmer told me after breaking the career point total for an AHL defenseman in January. "That’d be another great milestone, another personal goal that I’d love to reach. That was the two things that I wanted to come back for. The point record and to get 1,000 games. If I could do that, it’d be icing on the cake.”
Well he's got the point record, and he'll get his 1,000th game Friday night.
What else is in store for Helmer? After 18 long years, there may be not much left in the hockey chapter of his life.
“Well, I think this could be my last (season),” Helmer said. “My wife’s been great to let me do this for 18 years, and I’ve accomplished a lot of things and I’m really happy now with my career but you never know. Things do change sometimes and we’ll go from there.”
I would love to see Helmer come back to Oklahoma City if everything falls in place. He is a leader, a great interview and a real nice guy. I hope the rest of the season pans out for him and everything works in his favor for his future.
Here is a link to an article on Helmer I wrote in January on this very subject and below is the Helmer Tribute Video I edited for Bryan's record point puck presentation.
http://bit.ly/hJIIqj
I found that out when I first met him.
It must be odd for a 38-year-old professional hockey player to be pulled aside by a 21-year-old during his first game with a new team and forced to answer questions about a team he barely has had time to meet. Either that or it's just another day at the office.
But when I pulled Mr. Helmer aside that day to interview him after the first period of his first game here, I was rather pleased with the experience.
The defenseman has most likely seen it all, and if he hasn't seen it, he's probably heard of people that have seen it.
Helmer is in the latter end of an 18 year career that may be soon coming to a close. But not before he reaches a huge milestone.
Bryan will play in his 1,000th career American Hockey League game this Friday in Calgary.
1,000 games.
Now that is impressive.
“I’d love to get 1,000 games," Helmer told me after breaking the career point total for an AHL defenseman in January. "That’d be another great milestone, another personal goal that I’d love to reach. That was the two things that I wanted to come back for. The point record and to get 1,000 games. If I could do that, it’d be icing on the cake.”
Well he's got the point record, and he'll get his 1,000th game Friday night.
What else is in store for Helmer? After 18 long years, there may be not much left in the hockey chapter of his life.
“Well, I think this could be my last (season),” Helmer said. “My wife’s been great to let me do this for 18 years, and I’ve accomplished a lot of things and I’m really happy now with my career but you never know. Things do change sometimes and we’ll go from there.”
I would love to see Helmer come back to Oklahoma City if everything falls in place. He is a leader, a great interview and a real nice guy. I hope the rest of the season pans out for him and everything works in his favor for his future.
Here is a link to an article on Helmer I wrote in January on this very subject and below is the Helmer Tribute Video I edited for Bryan's record point puck presentation.
http://bit.ly/hJIIqj
Yvette Walker's Presentation
I had the pleasure to sit in on a presentation by UCO's newest Ethics professor, Yvette Walker.
Walker has worked in communications for a long time, spending time with major newspapers, including The Oklahoman.
Walker explained how blogging can cause egos to run wild. I tend to agree.
When you blog, you're more-or-less emphasizing your personality and character and smothering your posts with it.
This can often times become overbearing for the "traditional journalist" who may not be completely comfortable with adding opinion and personality to their work.
It was an interesting presentation and Walker really gave some insight into the world of journalistic blogging, what is a blog, how to get into blogging, who reads blogs, which bloggers are most successful etc.
I was very impressed with her experience and knowledge of the topic.
Walker has worked in communications for a long time, spending time with major newspapers, including The Oklahoman.
Walker explained how blogging can cause egos to run wild. I tend to agree.
When you blog, you're more-or-less emphasizing your personality and character and smothering your posts with it.
This can often times become overbearing for the "traditional journalist" who may not be completely comfortable with adding opinion and personality to their work.
It was an interesting presentation and Walker really gave some insight into the world of journalistic blogging, what is a blog, how to get into blogging, who reads blogs, which bloggers are most successful etc.
I was very impressed with her experience and knowledge of the topic.
Blog I've Chosen to Follow
As a requirement for my Blogging for Journalists class at the University of Central Oklahoma, I have to choose a professional blog to "follow" throughout the semester and post on.
I have chosen the AFC East Blog at ESPN.com written by Tim Graham.
Growing up in the Buffalo sports area and market I was instantly born into Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres fandom. And while I head into a stage in my life where I need to maintain a level of professionalism, meaning that I have made the choice to put my fan nature aside and begin a career, I still have a soft spot in my heart for Buffalo sports.
Tim Graham is a former beat writer of the Sabres and currently covers the Bills for ESPN.
Here is Tim's latest blog post: http://espn.go.com/blog/afceast/post/_/id/26057/breaking-down-buffalos-kyle-williams
In it Graham breaks down Buffalo defensive tackle Kyle Williams.
I find it interesting that Graham posted: "Williams is the NFL’s most underrated defensive player. In fact, he should have been a legitimate Defensive Player of the Year candidate."
I thought it is a legitimate argument.
Graham also states his opinion that Williams should be moved around more next season as to utilize his strengths. I couldn't agree more. This is something that I believe should have happened last season.
I have chosen the AFC East Blog at ESPN.com written by Tim Graham.
Growing up in the Buffalo sports area and market I was instantly born into Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres fandom. And while I head into a stage in my life where I need to maintain a level of professionalism, meaning that I have made the choice to put my fan nature aside and begin a career, I still have a soft spot in my heart for Buffalo sports.
Tim Graham is a former beat writer of the Sabres and currently covers the Bills for ESPN.
Here is Tim's latest blog post: http://espn.go.com/blog/afceast/post/_/id/26057/breaking-down-buffalos-kyle-williams
In it Graham breaks down Buffalo defensive tackle Kyle Williams.
I find it interesting that Graham posted: "Williams is the NFL’s most underrated defensive player. In fact, he should have been a legitimate Defensive Player of the Year candidate."
I thought it is a legitimate argument.
Graham also states his opinion that Williams should be moved around more next season as to utilize his strengths. I couldn't agree more. This is something that I believe should have happened last season.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
My Dog; The Hockey Fan
I feel like the title of this post could be misleading. After all it's not like my dog ever insisted upon wearing her favorite Gretzky jersey, or partook in any $1 beer nights at the local rink.
But make no mistake, my dog was a hockey fan in a very metaphorical, very literal and very real way.
On Wednesday January 26, 2011 Chloe, my close companion for 13 years, passed away.
While thinking of what to blog about that was hockey oriented, all I could think about was my dog. Then, it hits me. My dog was a hockey fan.
Each night following a UCO or Oklahoma City Barons' hockey game I would return home hungry and tired, in no particular order, having most likely skipped dinner and normal sleep hours.
I would come home and sit on my couch, trying to relax and unwind while everyone else around me slept.
That is when Chloe would waddle over in her old age to see who was coming home so late and if they had any food to share.
She would lay her head on my lap and stare at me for seconds, minutes, hours at a time and she would listen.
She would listen as I told her about my day, but she would listen most intently as I described the night's hockey game in detail. She almost seemed to show emotion in her glazed over, old dog baby-brown eyes.
She was my escape from a long day and my conversation buddy when no one else felt like talking hockey until two in the morning.
Now I come home and all there will be is the television and an empty square of carpet where my dog used to be. No one to listen to hockey stories and no one to enjoy the sport with me while everyone else slept.
Perhaps it is foolish of me to believe that my dog was a hockey fan. But then again, Chloe never acted like a dog. She was very much a person, and I loved her as such.
The sport of hockey lost a fan yesterday.
But make no mistake, my dog was a hockey fan in a very metaphorical, very literal and very real way.
On Wednesday January 26, 2011 Chloe, my close companion for 13 years, passed away.
While thinking of what to blog about that was hockey oriented, all I could think about was my dog. Then, it hits me. My dog was a hockey fan.
Each night following a UCO or Oklahoma City Barons' hockey game I would return home hungry and tired, in no particular order, having most likely skipped dinner and normal sleep hours.
I would come home and sit on my couch, trying to relax and unwind while everyone else around me slept.
That is when Chloe would waddle over in her old age to see who was coming home so late and if they had any food to share.
She would lay her head on my lap and stare at me for seconds, minutes, hours at a time and she would listen.
She would listen as I told her about my day, but she would listen most intently as I described the night's hockey game in detail. She almost seemed to show emotion in her glazed over, old dog baby-brown eyes.
She was my escape from a long day and my conversation buddy when no one else felt like talking hockey until two in the morning.
Now I come home and all there will be is the television and an empty square of carpet where my dog used to be. No one to listen to hockey stories and no one to enjoy the sport with me while everyone else slept.
Perhaps it is foolish of me to believe that my dog was a hockey fan. But then again, Chloe never acted like a dog. She was very much a person, and I loved her as such.
The sport of hockey lost a fan yesterday.
In Loving Memory of Chloe Wescott
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
AHL Team Foreshadowing Bigger Things?
I used to keep an old sports blog. I rarely use it anymore.
If you would like to read an old post I wrote about the Oklahoma City Barons and prospects of an NHL team in OKC (written prior to OKC's newest AHL team's inaugural season) click the link below.
Disclaimer: The blog post linked below was written on May 12, 2010.
CLICK for article
If you would like to read an old post I wrote about the Oklahoma City Barons and prospects of an NHL team in OKC (written prior to OKC's newest AHL team's inaugural season) click the link below.
Disclaimer: The blog post linked below was written on May 12, 2010.
CLICK for article
Saturday, January 15, 2011
"Flow" Sets Hockey Apart
The cadence of the sport is almost an art form.
From start-to-finish, a good hockey game is hard to beat. The constant movement of the puck, the shifting of players and constant stimulation is the epitome of a sporting event.
The one thing that hockey has above all other sports is consistent, intense flow. It is a rhythm that can keep a fan on the edge of their seat from the start of a period to the end, and following a quick trip to the beer stand, put them back on the edge.
From the opening whistle there are the sounds of skates grinding out patterns in the ice, the startling BANG of the puck against the glass, the smell of beer, popcorn and hotdogs on the artificially chilled air and the roar of the crowd at just the right moments.
Hockey would lose its appeal if not for its "flow". The constant shifting and substitution of players and the (almost) never-ending, but ever changing, puck movement create a primal need in spectators to keep their eyes on the game.
It could be because the game is intriguing. Or it could be because you're afraid you might miss something if you look away, even if it's just for a second.
From start-to-finish, hockey just may be the most engaging sport in the world.
While I pride myself on being an all-around sports fanatic, there just isn't anything like a good hockey game.
From start-to-finish, a good hockey game is hard to beat. The constant movement of the puck, the shifting of players and constant stimulation is the epitome of a sporting event.
The one thing that hockey has above all other sports is consistent, intense flow. It is a rhythm that can keep a fan on the edge of their seat from the start of a period to the end, and following a quick trip to the beer stand, put them back on the edge.
From the opening whistle there are the sounds of skates grinding out patterns in the ice, the startling BANG of the puck against the glass, the smell of beer, popcorn and hotdogs on the artificially chilled air and the roar of the crowd at just the right moments.
Hockey would lose its appeal if not for its "flow". The constant shifting and substitution of players and the (almost) never-ending, but ever changing, puck movement create a primal need in spectators to keep their eyes on the game.
It could be because the game is intriguing. Or it could be because you're afraid you might miss something if you look away, even if it's just for a second.
From start-to-finish, hockey just may be the most engaging sport in the world.
While I pride myself on being an all-around sports fanatic, there just isn't anything like a good hockey game.
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