Got your attention.
We’ve been receiving a fair number of e-mails and voice mail messages, even got pulled aside three times at a track meet, and asked by people: why aren’t you covering the OFSAA soccer playoffs…why aren’t you covering the OFSAA rugby playoffs…why aren’t you covering the OFSAA track and field final and on and on.
Poeple asking the questions are teachers, coaches, athletes, parents, alumni, etc.
And, for the majority who have heard back from me, here’s what I’ve told them.
First, the provincial organization that oversees a number of Ontario high school championships either doesn’t understand how to communicate to media or is not interested in having members of the broadcast and print media attend their events. OFSAA is certainly showing a lack of interest in promoting student athletes.
Over the next two weeks, 17 provincial school finals will take place - many clash on the same dates with upcoming exams being one reason - and other than an e-mail sent out the other day by OFSAA’s new PR person (telling members of the media to contact local organizers for information) the folks at OFSAA have wiped their hands.
Sad state for an organization that relies on tax-payer dollars. Disappointing as well for a provincial government that dishes out money to organizations like OFSAA and should insist on accountability and a bigger bang for the buck.
The FAN 590 and the Toronto Star appear to be the only major media in Toronto who consistently cover, and thus care about, high school sports.
Yes, we will be at the track and field finals in Hamilton. Yes, we will be covering the baseball final at the Rogers Centre. As for more, well, we’ll see depending on what doesn’t conflict. Can’t go to multiple places at the same time, right?
So, if OFSAA was wise, they’d be pro-active and look for ways to get results to the media who care. And that does require work and getting away from behind a desk.
Doug Gellatly, OFSAA’s executive director, should be the focus of attention. He’s in charge of the largest high school athletic association Canada and, I would wager, one that has let its pants drop when it gets down to seeking media attention to promote student athletes. Former executive directors Pete Beach, Andy Gibson and Colin Hood wouldn’t have allowed this to happen.
Instead, from what I have been told by OFSAA insiders, Gellatly figures the problem is isolated. Only the FAN 590 and Toronto Star have raised issues. And, Mr. Gellatly, that’s two darn good reasons for dealing with a problem in your office. Newspapers in Ottawa, Kingston, North Bay and on and on have given up on OFSAA. Radio and TV stations in other cities have told me that they can’t be bothered chasing down OFSAA. They’re too busy covering sports and dealing with others who get information to them - on time.
Looks as if people complaining have a point. Looks like OFSAA’s Executive and Board have some work ahead - especially in the quiet summer months.
That’s if these people care about raising the visibility of their schools, amateur sports and students. Don’t hold your breath.
As a reporter you should know stories aren’t going to fall on your desk in the newsroom.
Sometimes you’ll need to work for them.
I’m sure picking up a phone and making a call could get you some answers.
- Bill