Growing up on Long Island, my world revolved around sports. Whether it was watching the Yankees dominate in October, the Giants’ battle on Sundays, or the larger-than-life drama of WWE, sports were more than just entertainment—they were a way of life. But I never imagined that my passion for the game would take me from the stands to the locker room and eventually to the editing room, shaping the way fans experience the moments that make sports unforgettable.
The Early Days: A Love for the Game
Like many kids, I dreamed of being a professional athlete. But reality quickly set in—I wasn’t going to be the next Derek Jeter or Lawrence Taylor. Still, my love for the game never faded. I was fascinated by the way sports were covered, how broadcasters told the stories of triumph and heartbreak, and how a well-produced highlight reel could give someone chills. That curiosity led me to St. John’s University, where I studied communications and began to understand the power of storytelling in sports journalism.
My first experiences in the industry were humbling. I took whatever opportunity came my way—internships, freelance gigs, anything that gave me a foot in the door. I quickly learned that in sports media, you have to be willing to do the grunt work before you get a shot at the good stuff. I spent hours logging game footage, transcribing interviews, and shadowing producers who had been in the business for years. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was invaluable. Every moment spent behind the scenes was a lesson in what it takes to craft compelling sports content.
The Thrill of Live Sports Production
There’s nothing quite like the adrenaline rush of producing live sports. When the cameras are rolling and millions of fans are watching, there’s no room for mistakes. I remember the first time I worked on a major live broadcast—my hands were shaking, my heart was racing, and every second felt like an eternity. But once that first segment aired, I was hooked. The intensity, the pressure, and the need to stay sharp under fire became something I craved.
One of the best parts of this job is being in the locker room, capturing raw emotion right after the final whistle. Whether it’s the ecstasy of victory or the devastation of defeat, those moments are real, unfiltered, and powerful. Athletes may be larger than life on the field, but behind the scenes, they’re just people—driven, passionate, and often vulnerable. My job is to bring those stories to the fans in a way that feels authentic and meaningful.
The Evolution of Sports Media
When I started in this business, sports journalism was all about television, newspapers, and radio. Today, it’s a different world. Social media, streaming services, and digital platforms have completely changed how sports content is consumed. Fans don’t just want highlights; they want behind-the-scenes access, real-time updates, and in-depth storytelling that goes beyond the box score.
Adapting to this shift has been both a challenge and an opportunity. As a producer, I’ve had to think beyond traditional broadcasts and find new ways to engage audiences. Whether it’s through short-form digital content, social media clips, or documentary-style storytelling, the goal remains the same: bring fans closer to the game in a way that feels fresh and exciting. The demand for great content is higher than ever, and those who can evolve with the industry will thrive.
The Highs and Lows of the Business
This career has given me some incredible moments. I’ve had the chance to cover championship games, interview sports legends, and be part of productions that have reached millions of people. One of the proudest moments of my career was earning an Emmy nomination—recognition that the work I was doing mattered, that it resonated with audiences, and that I was making an impact in the industry I love.
But like any job, it’s not always glamorous. The hours are long, the deadlines are relentless, and the pressure can be overwhelming. There are nights when I barely sleep because I’m chasing a story or editing footage until sunrise. There are moments of doubt, frustration, and exhaustion. But at the end of the day, when I see a segment I produced air on national television or a piece I worked on go viral, it’s all worth it.
Why This Work Matters
At its core, sports media is about storytelling. It’s about capturing the magic of a game-winning shot, the heartbreak of a last-second loss, and the resilience of an athlete who refuses to give up. It’s about giving fans a deeper connection to the teams and players they love. Rick Saleeby has always believed that great sports journalism isn’t just about the games—it’s about the people, the emotions, and the moments that define sports history.
As I look back on my journey, I’m grateful for every challenge, every late night, and every lesson learned along the way. This industry has changed dramatically since I first started, but one thing remains constant: the power of a great sports story. And as long as there are games to be played and stories to be told, I’ll be there, behind the scenes, making sure they’re brought to life in the best way possible.