You know, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about what to write in an introductory post for this new website, but ironically, I’m dealing with a debilitating case of writer’s block.
So let’s just get to it.
Welcome to The Skate.
That is what I hope it is referred to in shorthand; in full, this website is named Great Lakes Skate.
Hopefully the name speaks for itself.
I took an enormous amount of pride in covering, supporting and promoting all that hockey in Michigan had to offer in my previous job as editor of Michigan Hockey Magazine and then MiHockey.com.
Lifestyle changes were necessary as I wrapped my arms and my mind around being a father of twins – a new journey into parenthood that began the same week the sports world shut down in March of 2020.
Since moving on from that endeavor, I have been finding ways to stay connected to the game – primarily through photography and freelance writing opportunities.
Now, with my two future hockey players (hopefully) off to their first year of preschool, it’s time to get back to work.
I would be lying if I said I have a grand yet detailed plan for what The Skate will look like now and over the course of the coming hockey seasons. All I know is that my entire professional life has been about two things – hockey and journalism – and I’m going to keep combining those two things for as long as I can.
I am excited to say that I’m not embarking on this adventure alone, either, as friends will be helping me along the way with their own versions of hockey expertise. Kyle Kujawa, formerly of the Detroit Red Wings’ public relations team, will be experiencing life on the opposing bench as a contributing writer and columnist. The ‘Voices’ tab of The Skate, meanwhile, will soon be filled with advice, inspiration and new ideas from notable names across the hockey landscape.
The Skate will exist to inform, educate and celebrate the hockey community.
Our state is filled with great hockey minds and great hockey stories, and I want to get back to sharing those stories and sharing ideas and promoting the good work and the good deeds done by members of the hockey family.
In Michigan, hockey is more than just a sport, it is a way of life…and it should have a media outlet covering its happenings once again.
See you at the rink.
