These Moments Are The Reason I Want to Work in Sports

If you read my last blog you know that I surprised Clayton with a trip to a Chicago Blackhawks game for Valentines day. It was awesome and I'm so happy that we got to experience that together. Couldn't have asked for a better performance from the team for our first game together.

I promise I am not going to ramble on about the game anymore, but there was something there that I overheard and I just felt the need to talk about it. It really struck a cord with me and it's something that I am sure I will remember for a long time.

Anyone that knows me knows that my biggest goal in life is to work for the Chicago Blackhawks. I've gotten really close, but sadly did not quite make the cut. I have this goal in the back of my mind at all times. There's something about working in sports that really just energizes me and I was reminded of what exactly that is, during the Hawks game.

Future Generations

Sitting in front of us during the game was a father and mother with their son. It was his first Hawks game. I immediately sympathize with the feeling of being at your first game because mine was only 2 years ago. During the 2nd intermission the dad was standing and stretching near his seat, when he struck up a conversation with the people that were sitting next to us. Sitting shoulder to shoulder with these people kind of made it impossible to not overhear.

The dad started talking about his son and how excited he was to finally be able to take him to his 1st Hawks game. I perked up and tried my best not to make it obvious that I was now listening. The dad went on and on about how his dad had shared the love of hockey with him at an early age and he wanted to be able to do the same with his son.

"I just want him to hear that goal horn. Just once, to understand how exciting and thrilling this sport is."

That comment grabbed me. Everyone yearns for the moment that they can share their passion with someone. Having a bond over something with your child is the best feeling. I may not be a parent, but I know what it's like to share something with your mom and dad. My mom and I have a love for a specific TV show and my dad and I have always loved skating boarding and the X-games. It means everything to be able to connect and share a passion for those things. I could instantly feel what this dad was feeling for his son.

I began really paying attention to the family as the game went on. Goal after goal I could see the little boys eyes light up. His dad had him up on his shoulders to celebrate and they both sang Chelsea Dagger together. I imagine it will be a game he will never forget.

Why This Matters

This may seem like a random story to share, but it really relates to my journey in sports. I kind of fell into a career in sports because I just needed a summer job. That summer job turned into a passion and I owe it all to stories like this. I've seen kids throw the first pitch at a baseball game and walk away feeling like a superhero. I've see players go out of their way to sign hats and jerseys just to make a fan feel special. I've been at plenty of hockey post games, where season ticket holders skate and chat with their favorite players. Those moments mean everything to those people and they make a stressful job so worth it.

Is there anything at your job that makes all the stress worth it? Would love to know what your dream job is too! Leave a comment and let me know!