Farewell to the Sarasota Sports Beat: A Journalist's Reflections on Covering the Orioles and Beyond

As a lifelong Baltimore Orioles fan, I never imagined that my sports reporting journey would lead me to the sunny shores of Sarasota, Florida. But that's exactly what happened, and the experiences I've had covering the Orioles' spring training and the vibrant local sports scene have left an indelible mark on me. Now, as I prepare to embark on a new chapter, I can't help but reflect on the memories, the connections, and the lessons I've learned along the way.

Embracing the Orioles' Sarasota Sanctuary

Growing up in the suburbs of Washington, D.C., I was surrounded by the district's sports teams, but my heart always belonged to the Orioles. Even though the Nationals arrived in 2005, it was too late – the Orioles had already captured my loyalty. As I pursued my passion for journalism, attending the University of Missouri and honing my writing skills, my fandom for the O's never wavered.After graduating in 2016, I found myself drawn to a job opportunity at the Sarasota Observer, a decision fueled not by the city's beaches or weather, but by the Orioles' presence. The team's spring training home at Ed Smith Stadium became a sanctuary for me, a place where I could connect with the team I had grown up watching.The first time I stepped into the press box as a credentialed media member, I was overwhelmed with nerves. Navigating the locker room and interacting with the players felt like an impostor's game, but with each subsequent visit, I grew more comfortable. I learned to set aside my fandom and approach my work with professionalism, covering not just the Orioles but also the Atlanta Braves' new CoolToday Park in North Port.

Connecting with the Sarasota Sports Community

Those spring training experiences were more than just opportunities to cover the Orioles; they were a way for me to become a part of the Sarasota sports community. Seeing the waves of orange and black in the stands, and hearing the roar of "O" during the national anthem, made me feel like I belonged. I was no longer just an outsider; I was a part of something bigger.As I immersed myself in the local sports scene, I had the privilege of telling the stories of the incredible athletes, coaches, and personalities that make Sarasota such a unique place. From covering high school football games to interviewing local Olympians, I learned the art of crafting narratives that resonated with the community.

Embracing the Vibrant Sports Landscape

Sarasota's sports landscape is truly vibrant and ever-evolving. I had the opportunity to witness some of the world's best athletes compete at the World Rowing Championships at Nathan Benderson Park, and I was inspired by the stories of local Olympians like skateboarder Jake Ilardi, rifle shooter Mary Tucker, rower Clark Dean, and swimmer Emma Weyant.Beyond the high-profile events, I found joy in covering the lesser-known sports and the unsung heroes. From the city's emergency manager, Todd Kerkering, who went viral for his emotional reaction to his son's MLB debut, to the legendary Riverview High football coach, John Sprague, who was remembered for his boisterous and caring nature, these stories allowed me to connect with the community in a deeper way.

Bidding Farewell, but Carrying Sarasota's Spirit

As I prepare to leave Sarasota and embark on a new journey in Richmond, Virginia, I can't help but feel a bittersweet mix of emotions. The past eight years have been truly remarkable, and I will forever cherish the connections I've made and the lessons I've learned.While my new role will not be as public-facing, I know that the values I've cultivated at the Sarasota Observer – a dedication to hyperlocal communities and a commitment to telling stories in the truest way possible – will continue to guide me. I may no longer be on the sidelines or in the press box, but I will always carry the spirit of Sarasota with me.To the athletes, coaches, athletic directors, and the entire Sarasota sports community, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. Thank you for welcoming me, for sharing your stories, and for allowing me to be a part of this vibrant and growing sports landscape. As I move on, I know that the great stories will continue to be written on the athletic fields of Sarasota, and I can't wait to follow them from afar, this time as a spectator.