Every day I thank my lucky stars for having the privilege of working in the sports industry. As a kid I dreamed of being a professional hockey player. The next best thing was to earn a living covering the game.
I’ve had many memorable moments throughout my seven plus years in the business but my current assignment takes the cake.
About eight months ago I pitched a story idea to my boss thinking there was no way in hell he’d go for it. I told him I wanted to go to the UK to do a story on George Gillett, the owner of the Liverpool FC. Gillett, who also owns the Montreal Canadiens and is part-owner of the Gillett-Evernham team in the NASCAR series has become one of the most influential persons in the sports scene worldwide.
Not only did George Gillett agree to give us exclusive behind the scenes access but he also offered to let us travel with him.
Last Monday we left from Montreal on his private jet and traveled to Marseille France for the FC’s do-or-die tilt versus L’Olympique. My cameraman Hugo Regimbal and I were pinching ourselves. We couldn’t believe the VIP treatment we were getting. It was like nothing we had ever experienced and probably never will again. We definitely could get used to the billionaire’s lifestyle.
After being entertained by George Gillett for seven hours we arrived in Marseille. Hugo and I hit the ground running to get scenics of the city. It was absolutely breathtaking. Later that night, we attended the Champions League game. It was an amazing atmosphere in spite of the fact Liverpool was in command 11 minutes in.
Now I’ve had the privilege to attend Stanley Cup Finals and covered a Super Bowl but nothing, absolutely nothing compares to what I experienced at Stade Velodrome last night. The fans sang the entire game supporting their team. They danced, lit flares and partied like there was no tomorrow.
Needless to say I won’t soon forget my 24 hours in Marseille. I gotta go now. We’re off to England getting set for the biggest game of the year. Manchester United will clash with their arch rivals at Anfield on Sunday. But before we make it to Liverpool, we’ll spend the day in London. Stay tuned for more on our dream assignment.