It’s that time of the year where we take a step back and reflect.
When I first joined FDS and created the #InFocus platform, I wanted to go deeper, I wanted to discuss and bring light to subjects within the game of hockey that might not necessarily be always talked about. I didn’t mind being a small voice for potential change within the game. I’ve tried to stay true to that every time I share a story.
Over the years that’s been hard to navigate sometimes for obvious reasons.
I’m so grateful for so many interactions I have had over the past year and years when it comes to the game of hockey and the friendships that have been cultivated over that time.
I have made a concerted effort to be better every time out when it comes to each and every article. Nevertheless, there are always some stories that have a larger impact from a pgviews perspective, but more importantly on personal level.
“A Story to Share”
“I have a story to tell” was one of those stories that transcends the game. When Kevin Furze reached out to me that day wondering if I could share his story, a story he wrote on the FDS, #InFocus platform, I was simply blown away.
I requested a photo, and he sent that a long, and the rest is history. The reaction to Kevin’s story was truly remarkable. It’s exactly why we need to continue to be mindful of all young athletes especially hockey players.
Kevin’s honesty and transparency resonated with so many on so many different levels.
Breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, especially amongst young men is vital. Kevin’s story continues to have impact.
Over 3,000 people read his amazing story.
Anyone on social media platforms want the stats, they want to see the numbers, the pgviews, the impressions, the reach, the raw data, it’s all about the numbers right? People can’t deny, all those aspects of social media and sports journalism are exciting, but let’s face it, when it comes to stories like Kevin’s, the pgviews are one thing it’s the impact the story has on people that matters most.
I can’t thank Kevin enough for trusting me and the FDS platform to share his story.
“One of those Conversations”
You never really know when you’re going to have one of those conversations especially when it comes to the game of hockey and the experiences shared amongst people. Obviously, I can’t share the details of that conversation, but it was the inspiration of “Caught Between a Rock and Hard Place: Goaltenders and their Parents”
Over 8,300 people read that article, which all started with one conversation. The courage to share their story inspired me to sit down and write it. It took me a few days to wrap my head around it, but it was something that one of them said to me that made me realize I just had to. You see I was at one of those crossroads again when ironically that conversation took place. I was questioning the direction and impact my writing was having.
What’s the purpose?
What’s the end goal?
Why am I doing what I’m doing?
That 30 minute conversation added fuel, inspiration and perspective. Their courage to share their experiences, highs and lows were the sole reason I wrote the article.
We often feel alone. We often struggle alone in silence. Their courage to share inevitably helped a lot of people feel accepted validated and most importantly not alone in similar experiences within the game and position.
You never know when one of those conversations arise, especially when it comes to the game of hockey.
It’s that time of year where we pause and reflect. It’s that time of year where we are grateful and thankful for all the people in our lives.
Thanks to all those that have and continue to support FDS #InFocus, it means so much to me!
Happy New Year Everyone!
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