For anyone involved in sports journalism, the thrill of witnessing live games is undeniable. However, my most cherished memories during my time covering sports in the Bemidji area for the Bemidji Pioneer Newspaper often occurred away from the court, field, or rink. While the games themselves were a fantastic part of the job, the real essence lay in the moments before the whistle blew or after the final buzzer sounded.
It was in the pre-game anticipation, the post-game locker room buzz, the media room discussions, or even the bus rides back with the team that the true stories unfolded. These were the times when the human element of sports shone brightest, offering a deeper connection to the athletes and the community I was covering for the Bemidji Pioneer newspaper.
One indelible memory involves Bemidji State University (BSU) women’s hockey coach Jim Scanlan and defender Alexis Joyce. After an exhilarating overtime victory against North Dakota on the road, I waited near the visitors’ locker room at Ralph Engelstad Arena. Coach Scanlan emerged from the press box, where he had been handling postgame radio duties. Spotting me, he delivered the most emphatic fist pump I had ever witnessed. Joyce, the game-winning scorer, mirrored his enthusiasm with a more reserved but equally heartfelt reaction.
The details of the game recap I penned for the Bemidji Pioneer newspaper are now hazy, but the interviews with Scanlan and Joyce undoubtedly infused the article with an authenticity and emotional depth that statistics alone could never provide. These interactions, built on a foundation of mutual respect and understanding developed beyond the ice, were the lifeblood of impactful sports journalism at the Bemidji Pioneer newspaper.
It’s easy to view athletes solely through the lens of their performance. However, my approach at the Bemidji Pioneer newspaper centered on forging genuine connections with individuals, understanding their stories beyond the game, and portraying them as multifaceted people within the Bemidji community. This personal approach, I believe, is what truly resonated with readers of the Bemidji Pioneer newspaper.
Perhaps this reflection sounds sentimental, but it stems from a significant transition. My recent departure from my role as Sports Editor at the Bemidji Pioneer newspaper marks the end of a chapter. I am moving on from the Pioneer and from Bemidji itself, accepting a position as a copy editor with Forum News Service in the Twin Cities.
As I embark on this new journey, I am filled with gratitude for the welcoming spirit of Bemidji. Arriving in 2012, sight unseen, I was quickly embraced by the community. Whether it was trivia nights at Brigid’s Pub, conversations with the friendly staff at Bemidji Brewing, or enjoying live music at the Rail River Folk School, Bemidji rapidly became home.
This sense of belonging is not always guaranteed when moving to a new place. In my experience, it is what distinguishes Bemidji. Over five years, Bemidji has become the longest place I’ve resided since leaving for college. Without exaggeration, no place has felt as much like “home.” This deep connection to Bemidji amplified my dedication to covering the local sports scene for the Bemidji Pioneer newspaper. My investment in the community naturally translated to a genuine care for the athletes, teams, and sports programs I covered.
Coverage wasn’t always celebratory, and difficult stories were part of the job. However, the commitment of the Bemidji Pioneer newspaper was always to fairness and accuracy, regardless of the narrative. Fortunately, the positive experiences and memories far outweigh any challenges.
Highlights include following the Red Lake Warriors and Lady Warriors basketball teams during their memorable state tournament runs. Coach Randy Holthusen led the girls to their historic first-ever state tournament appearance, while Coach Roger White guided the boys to their fourth consecutive appearance. Despite first-round losses for both teams, the unwavering support of the Red Lake Nation was palpable at every game. Their fans’ dedication was a testament to their community spirit, a story proudly covered by the Bemidji Pioneer newspaper.
Bemidji High School’s consistent athletic excellence also provided countless stories. Their frequent state tournament contention across various sports was a testament to the school’s athletic program and the dedication of Athletic Director Troy Hendricks and the coaching staff. The Bemidji Pioneer newspaper was there to document their achievements and the hard work behind them.
Covering Bemidji State Athletics was an immense privilege. From my inaugural Beaver football game in 2012 to the final men’s hockey game I covered, every event was a chance to witness dedication and passion. The support from Brad Folkestad and the BSU sports communications team was invaluable in navigating the intricacies of BSU sports. Their collaboration was essential to the Bemidji Pioneer newspaper’s comprehensive coverage.
Finally, and most importantly, my gratitude extends to the entire team at the Bemidji Pioneer newspaper. The sports section’s recognition as first place winner in the Minnesota Newspaper Association’s Better Newspaper Contest is a collective achievement. Sports reporters Austin Monteith and Micah Friez, photographers Maggi Stivers and Jillian Gandsey, and editor Matt Cory all played crucial roles in this success. Their commitment to quality local journalism made the Bemidji Pioneer newspaper a vital part of the community.
Although I am leaving the Bemidji Pioneer newspaper and Bemidji, my connection to both remains strong. The Pioneer will always feel like family, and Bemidji a second home. Thankfully, home is never truly too far away.
