Thanks for the Memories

So...about Friday night...

I want to start things off by saying THANK YOU for all of the kind messages and comments after I announced that my time with the Calgary Hitmen was coming to an end. It's incredible to think about how quick 13 seasons flashed by in the blink of an eye, and I'm so incredibly grateful for the experiences, but more importantly, the people and relationships that were created in that time. It truly means the world and my heart is full.

A few have asked about "what's next" so I thought I'd divulge a little more into my decision-making process. One of the least talked-about aspects of being involved in sports and entertainment is that you sacrifice a lot of your evenings and weekends. Anyone who works in those two industries will tell you it's not easy on anyone as you try to plan activities, holidays or get-togethers around what is a jam-packed schedule.

When I met Erin , I came to the realization that, for the first time ever, someone wanted to spend the rest of their life with me - and that includes evenings and weekends. So my priorities changed. When Lochlan and Hannah were born, they changed again. I don't ever want to miss the activities that they are involved in, or have to shift things around just to fit them into my schedule. So, my "what's next" is actually "what's right now" and that is family.

I also have a few other things on the go, including my regular 9-5 job at UCalgary, and a new teaching role at SAIT. I'm also hoping to do some more "business-oriented" things with Alberta Dugout Stories (stay tuned). And I always have my eye on potential start-up/entrepreneurial ventures, so who knows what that might bring.

That all being said, I have said to the Flames/Hitmen team that if they ever need someone to fill in because of illness or whatever, I'm happy to jump back on the mic. But I felt it was necessary for the fans to have a consistent voice who could give it their all for the full season, which they will get.

As I said on Friday in my final timeout, it's been an honour and a privilege of a lifetime to work for the Hitmen and to be part of the fan's game-day experience. A big thank you as well to the team for allowing me the opportunity to say "goodbye" in my own way, as I know how that doesn't always happen.

As previously mentioned: my family will be making the trek to the 'Dome fairly regularly to catch a few games and make noise in our own way. So in that regard, this isn't goodbye. It's see ya later.

#YYC #Calgary #Sports #Media #Entertainment #Careers #MakeSomeNoise