The Long Road to Retirement: A Sportswriter's Journey
As I bid farewell to my 46-year journalism career, I can't help but reflect on the twists and turns that led me here. It's a journey that began with a passion for sportswriting and took me through economic downturns, career reinventions, and memorable moments in sports history. From covering the Blazers and MLB playoffs to witnessing the Kentucky Derby, I've been fortunate to experience the thrill of sports firsthand.
What makes my story unique is the ability to retire on my terms. Many of my peers in the newspaper industry haven't been so lucky, their careers abruptly cut short by the collapse of a once-thriving business model. I'm acutely aware of this privilege, and it's a sentiment that resonates deeply with me.
Early Dreams and Career Beginnings
My journey started with a dream—a dream born on a 20-acre farm in Oregon. As a young boy, I'd lie in the pasture, devouring baseball statistics and sports books, envisioning myself as a sportswriter. This dream led me to pursue a degree in agricultural economics at Oregon State, but my heart was always in the sports pages.
The summer of 1976 marked the beginning of my professional career at the Oregon Journal. I wasn't just answering phones; I was covering stories and games in the Portland metro area. One of my earliest assignments was interviewing Brian Shaw, a Canadian who had just brought a junior hockey franchise to Portland. Little did I know that this franchise, the Portland Winterhawks, would become a local institution.
Navigating Career Challenges
The newspaper industry has never been an easy ride. I entered the workforce in 1980 when the unemployment rate was sky-high, and interest rates on mortgages were approaching 20%. But I found my niche, becoming a 'grinder' in the newsroom. I did it all, from answering phones to covering high school sports and the Blazers. I even laid out the sports section for The Columbian, often arriving at the office at 3 a.m. with a cup of coffee in hand.
The economic downturn of 2008 hit hard, resulting in layoffs, but I persevered. I reinvented myself, building a laundromat and working for a startup in North Carolina. Eventually, I returned to The Oregonian, a place where I had spent 14 years earlier in my career.
Memorable Moments and Personal Reflections
It's the experiences, not just the stories, that I'll cherish. I recall an IndyCar test run at Portland International Raceway where I almost got stuck in a two-seat open-wheel car, and a golf match where I found myself squeezed into a golf cart with Charles Barkley and Barry Sanders. These moments, while seemingly insignificant, are what make this career so special.
I was there when the Oregon Ducks and Washington State Cougars made history, beating their rivals to earn a Rose Bowl berth. I saw the joy on Ryan Leaf's face as he celebrated with fans, a side of him rarely seen during his college career. These are the moments that sportswriters live for.
Covering Oregon State athletics from 2018 to 2025 was particularly challenging. As an OSU graduate, I had to constantly remind people that I was a storyteller, not a fan. It's a fine line that sportswriters often navigate, especially when covering their alma maters.
The Power of Local Journalism
As I retire, I reflect on the importance of local journalism. I've seen the impact of passionate, dogged local reporters firsthand. They are the lifeblood of communities, keeping citizens informed and entertained. I urge readers to support local journalism by subscribing to their local newspapers. It's a small price to pay for staying connected to your community.
Looking Ahead
Retirement brings a mix of emotions. I'm excited to explore new hobbies, perhaps travel, and spend time with my family. My wife, Maureen, a retired chemistry teacher, and I look forward to the adventures ahead. Maybe I'll even pick up my golf clubs again, though my handicap might suggest otherwise. Who knows, I might even become a sports fan again, this time from the sidelines.
In the end, I'm grateful for the opportunities and experiences that shaped my career. It's been a wild ride, and I'm ready for the next chapter.
