The old saying goes that all good things must come to an end. And unfortunately this phrase now applies when it comes to the New York Collegiate Baseball League blog. As of today, the blog is being closed and no new content will be added. However, all previous posts will remain up to celebrate the last several years of the league - including an exciting '08 championship series that took three games to decide.
Additionally, after four great years in the NYCBL as a broadcaster and league media relations director, I would like to announce that I have parted ways with the league. It is an amicable split and I wish the league nothing but the best in the future.
I'd like to specifically thank several people who made the past four years very enjoyable including Paul Simmons (Watertown Wizards), Todd Kirkey (Watertown Wizards), Darin Williams (Glens Falls Golden Eagles), John Mayotte (Glens Falls Golden Eagles), Jeremy Winig (Glens Falls Golden Eagles '07-'08) and Jon Rathburn (Little Falls Times). I'd also like to thank Brian Spagnola (Amsterdam Mohawks) for giving me a chance back in 2006 when others wouldn't.
Some of my favorite moments from the past four years include covering two game three's in the League Championship Series (2005, 2008), broadcasting and producing three NYCBL All-Star Games and helping television talent cover a fourth, seeing over 3700 people crowd into Duffy Fairgrounds for a July 2007 game between Watertown and Niagara, getting a chance to broadcast a 2007 exhibition match between the Saratoga Phillies and the Russian National team (legit crowd of 1,000 at East Side Rec), announcing Mike Schellinger's 17 strike-out performance in game one of the 2005 Eastern Division playoffs and watching 1996 league alum Brad Lidge help the Philadelphia Phillies win the 2008 World Series. I'm sure there's moments I'm missing but those are the ones that stand out the most.
Also, I'd like to thank all the readers of the blog - including parents, players, fans and coaches. Without you reading the blog, sending e-mails and ideas, the blog would not have stayed around for two years. The comment section is open for any and all comments. I can also be reached at saltcitysports@aol.com.
Thank You.
John McGraw
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
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9 comments:
Thanks John, enjoyed your efforts!
All the best,
Jeff McCoy
In an age where above and beyond aren't traits connected to too many vocations, you truly did that for this league. I can tell you that our fans in Watertown, as well as across this league will truly miss your work, and I know personally you will move on and up in the broadcasting world. Our loss will be someone else's gain. Best of luck
Todd R. Kirkey
All Watertown Wizards fans
Best of luck moving on John. Having pride in your work, being a hard worker, being professional and being super-efficient are qualities that will undoubtedly make you a star in this indusrty!!
Brian Spagnola
President, Amsterdam Mohawks
NYCBL President 2005-2008
John,
In an era where more is demanded of anyone working in the media it is rare to find the few that are actually able to deliver it.
Most of us are not paid for the hours and hours put into the "extras" to keep fans and families updated well after the lights have been turned off, we all do it for the love of the sport, the players and the fans.
I have always held you, your efforts and your work with the NYCBL in high regard and appreciate our e-mail conversations over the past two summers.
Once again, I thank you for your efforts and wish you luck in everything that you do for yourself, your family and your future fans.
Stan Hudy
The Saratogian and Community News
Great working with you! You are welcome anytime in the press box at Maple City Park.
If you need anything let me know. I would love to see you as a colleague in the NY Sport Information Director scene one day.
Paul Welker
Hornell Dodegers
John,
Know that your effort and the fact that you went above and beyond in every story you wrote, is to be commended and very much appreciated. You not only made the stats stand out you made us want to know the players. I enjoyed getting to know you these past few years, and all the information you shared on the blogs goes far beyond what is written. I believe that whatever the future holds in store for you we have not heard the last from you!! GOOD LUCK!!
Sheri Williams
on behalf of the
Glens Falls Golden Eagles
Host Families!!!
John, what can I say about you. When Watertown started broadcasting the league was not in favor of going down that road. Then it found it to be a great addition to the Wizards. It would not have been so great had it not been for you. The Wizards lost you to the league and felt it was for the best to help the NYCBL. I felt then and still do that NO ONE can do the job you did. If we could afford you I would want you back in the Wizards land. You brought so much more to all of us than we gave you. The most important thing is I gained a true friend. John anything you need let me know. I am there for you. Paul Simmons
John,
I truly do not know what to say but good luck and I will miss your blog. I would read your blog to see if Coach John or I missed any information about the Golden Eagles. This was a great resource for the web page. I know if I had a question about the team or a player you would have the answer or would find it. I have left messages on your phone late at night only to have you call me right back saying you were working on a project for the blog.You have always been a "go to guy" for me and I thank you. I truly have been blessed by having known 2 hard working dedicated sports people as you and Jeremy. You have always told me about Jeremy being a special person and who would be an asset in any organization. You are the same way. I hope that our paths cross again but on a bigger stage.You deserve the big break. If I can help in any way, Call me.If you come into town, I'll buy you a burger at Hotshots. Good luck.
Darin Williams
Glens Falls Golden Eagles
John,
Your efforts for the NYCBL and for each individual team have been a true example for me. Your continued help to me personally was an asset to the operation in Glens Falls, and I am thankful in more ways that I can show. Your mentoring in certain areas have taught me lessons that I will never forget. I hope for your continued success in your remaining endeavors, you will be an asset in whatever you do.
Jeremy Winig
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