sports Archives - Mia Gordon

I picked up my first tennis racket when I was just four years old. I grew up playing competitively and dreaming of one day playing on the WTA circuit. That dream came true for a brief moment, before a shoulder injury.

During my time off, I decided to switch courses and accepted a full scholarship to an NCAA D1 school. There I fell in love with broadcasting, and decided to pursue sports in a different way, through story telling.

I dreamed of becoming a sports broadcaster and interviewing the top athletes in the world, having a chance to bring their stories to life.

After I graduated, my path took me in a little bit of a different direction. I ended up getting my first big girl job as a videographer and news reporter in Corpus Christi, Texas. I had never really watched local news before, but after my first week on the job, I fell in love with it. Telling the stories that really mattered to the community meant a lot to me.

After a year in Texas I moved back to Canada, and took a few other positions as a reporter and videographer, before I finally got into the world of sports. It all happened when Sun News shut down, and I decided to really go after my original dream.

I got a job as the reporter and host for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats CFL team. Soon after, TSN launched a station in Hamilton and it was a dream come true. I got to host game days, tell stories, and interview some of the top CFL players.

Once my time with the Cats came to an end, I moved on to a new and exciting opportunity with the National Lacrosse League. They were launching a digital network and looking for a videographer and reporter. I was excited to take on a new role bringing attention to a sport I truly love.

Then came the move. My partner received a job promotion in Vancouver, and I had to make the choice. With my family already out in B.C. it was easy to make the move, but hard to leave a full time job I loved. Thankfully, the NLL team kept me on part time, and I landed a job with Sportsnet and the Saskatchewan Rush.

Over the last nine months, I have fallen in love with all three of my jobs. Traveling to Saskatoon and spending time with 15,000 memebers of Rush Nation, telling the players stories, and living out my dream as a sports host at Sportsnet. It all seemed too good to be true. I fell in love with my team at both of these places. Co-workers soon became friends, and friends soon became family.

The past months will filled with unforgettable memories, from co-hosting a morning show (can you say dream come true) to winning a championship with the Rush. It has been a whirlwind, and all of this success made my next decision that much harder.

Over the years, I have had lived out so many dreams and created so many memories. During my career, I have also realized that my true passion is telling the stories and bringing them to life for the viewers. That is why I was excited to jump on an opportunity with the Weather Network.

As a child, the Weather Network was always locked on our T.V. I loved watching the reporters bring the stories to life.

I am so excited for this next and extremely new chapter. I am excited to be out in the field, I am excited to be filming content, I am excited to continue my story telling but in a different outlet.

I know that this new chapter will bring on challenges, but it will also bring on adventure, excitement, and new opportunities I could never have imagined. Thank you to the Weather Network for believing in me, and allowing me a chance to join such an amazing team.

But before I step fully into this new chapter, I also need to say thank you to the NLL, the Rush, and Sportsnet for giving me the chance to continue to pursue my dream in my new home, for making me a part of the team but more so a part of the family, and for allowing me a stage to tell your stories. For that I cannot thank you enough.

That chapter of the book closes, and now it is time for an exciting new chapter. I hope that you will continue to follow along as I continue to try and bring the best possible stories to life.

What comes to mind when you think of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan? Probably not a must see destination. Well guess what, the Paris of the Prairies really is a must see. In fact,when the New York Times released their list of the top 52 places to visit in 2018, Saskatoon came it at number 18. Even more surprising, it was the only Canadian city to make the final cut.

When I first took the job as the Saskatchewan Rush’s TV and in game host and reporter, I didn’t really know what to expect. The first thing that came to mind when I thought of Saskatoon was I better bring my warmest winter jacket. Yet after a few trips, I soon found out why it is so easy to fall in love with Saskatoon.

What makes this place special?

This city offers so much to see and do. Located right on the Saskatchewan River there are beautiful hiking trails to explore. There is an extensive art and culture scene, which has grown even more with a brand new modern and contemporary art museum, Remai Modern. The local cuisine scene offers a variety of must visit restaurants. Oh and there is a professional lacrosse team called the Saskatchewan Rush which sells out every game. 15,185 members or Rush nation come to cheer on their first place team every home game. Today, I get to take you behind the scenes as I head to Saskatoon for this week’s Rush game.

Day 1:

When I arrive in Saskatoon, I head straight to our downtown Radisson Hotel. I love staying here because it overlooks the river. In the summer this is a spot for boat rides and kayaking. In the winter it is covered in a layer of snow and offers picturesque walks and outdoor skating.

I don’t have time to explore because I need to get ready for our first shoot of the day at Wanuskewin Heritage Park. Saskatoon has a rich Indigenous culture, which we had the chance to learn more about at the park. In fact, there have been archaeological finds that pre-date the pyramids of Egypt.

Today, the players and myself are treated to an amazing history lesson. After our lesson our skills are put to the test in a game of double ball. Similar to lacrosse where they use a stick and get this, two bison testicles attached by a string. After we head out back to see the beautiful plains. There are even teepees for summer camping. Today it is a little too cold for that. Before we leave, we are treated to a performance from a traditional dancer.

Once the shoot is done we head to dinner. Saskatoon has so many quaint local restaurants that it is hard to pick just one. Tonight we decide to stop into The Rook and Raven. A cross between a pub and fine dining, the menu has endless options. What I love about this spot is its laid back feel but uncommon decor. Oh and while you are here you need to get Saskatoon’ed. Confused? I was too at first. Basically a shot with part Great Western Brewery’s Original 16 beer and part Lucky Bastard Distillery’s Liqueur. Once you complete the shot, you get a card showing your status as an honorary local.

Day 2:

I wake up with butterflies in my stomach because it is game day, but I can’t get too excited just yet. There is still plenty of work to do.

I start the morning with a delicious breakfast at Poached, which doubles as a cocktail bar at night. Sitting at my high top, I once again see why this town gets compared to Paris. While here you have to try the PB&J hot chocolate with a shot of expresso is a must.

Walking back to the hotel, I am so giddy over all the Rush jerseys I see out and about. This city really does love their team.

Next stop, axe throwing at Timberjaxe. The owners say the goal of Timberjaxe was to bring some good old fashion fun to Saskatoon, and they have done just that. The rustic design makes it one of the best looking axe throwing centres I have seen. While we tried to keep it all fun and games, with professional athletes in the house there is bound to be some competition with bragging rights on the line.

Now it is time to head to Sasktel Centre and start getting ready for game time. The Minnesota Vikings cheerleaders are in town for tonight’s event so it is sure going to be a show. For me, the greatest moment of the entire weekend is when the lights go down and I know it is time for the pre game show to start. I walk out on to the field with my co-host and look out onto 15,180 screaming fans. Well, that and when we score a goal and everyone in the arena takes part in our goal tradition of pounding your chest.

I know lacrosse isn’t the most mainstream sport, but all it takes is seeing the excitement, intensity, and none stop action in one game to get you hooked for life. The Rush do such a good job on putting on a show. From pyro acts, to a DJ spinning the tunes the fun never stops. It also doesn’t hurt that our team is currently first overall in the league.

After the game the adrenaline is pumping, but I have to try and get some sleep because I fly out early the next morning. The weekend always goes by so fast and I am never ready to leave. There is so much I still want to explore here. Then I get my schedule for the next game and see that I get to go to the art gallery, and I start counting down the days until I am back. This Prairie city has stolen my heart.

Christmas 2.0 is here, or should I say the Big Game! That is right it is that time of the year again where the football king will be crowned. While my Miami Dolphins didn’t quite make the cut this year (thanks third string QB) I will most definitely be watching the Patriots and Falcons in action Sunday February 5^th. Now the question is where?

In the past I have done the whole home party, but with a hectic work schedule it has been tough to plan having the gang over. So I sat down with TSN’s very own Cabbie Richards to find out the top sports bars to watch to cheer on your favourite team (for any sport you choose) in this edition of Top 6 in the 6.

Amsterdam Brewhouse: Cabbie says this is one of his favourite places to watch sports during the summer. With a massive two story patio down by Lake Ontario the views are perfect and there are giant TVs. While it may be a little chilly to catch the game outdoors, indoor football watching is just as great. There are giant TV’s around the bar area and according to Cabbie the Smokehouse burger is legit. Plus, you can enjoy a craft brewed beer made in the Amsterdam Brewery.
The Fox and The Fiddle: This bar is in a prime location, very close to the Sky Dome and the ACC so you are right beside the game action. According to Cabbie, the lamb burgers are his personal favourite. Also the décor is more upscale than a lot of sports bars.
Jack Astor’s (John Street): Cabbie loves the atmosphere at this bar. This location is right in the heart of the entertainment district, and during the summer the perfect location to catch the Jays game on their patio, which is heated in the winter time. There is also a giant big screen inside so you will almost feel like you are at the game itself.
Dog & Bear: This bar is located in the very trendy area of Queen West and is always filled with die hard sports fans on game day. There is an old school feel to this bar with wooden booths and large wooden pillars holding up the roof. Cabbie highly recommends the Chicken Quesadillas and says they have an amazing drink menu at a reasonable cost.
Speakeasy 21: This bar is located right in the heart of the financial district with huge TV’s inside to catch the big game. Make sure to try the beef tacos and fried chicken, Cabbies personal favs.
1. Dublin Calling. This bar has the big TV’s and the sound to watch the big game, but there is also so much more. Feel like a game of darts? Check. A round of pool? Check. A ping pong show down? Check. Soon the game on the screen won’t be the only game going down

Would also love to hear your recommendations of great spots in Toronto to catch the big game? Happy Day of football everyone!

Mia

This weekend was an exciting one. It marked the first time I had the opportunity to travel for a game with the National Lacrosse League as the New England Black Wolves hosted the Buffalo Bandits at their home opener.

One of my absolutely favourite things is being able to take in the atmosphere and excitement of a live sporting event, particularly with the NLL, so despite this not being a vacation, I was extremely excited to be able to experience a game at the Mohegan Sun.

The trip started early Friday morning, double checking to make sure I had all the equipment in tow. Camera? Check. Tripod? Check. Batteries? Check. The list goes on. Once I had checked for the zillionth time, it was time to head down to the Toronto City airport.

Since there are no flights that get you close to where Mohegan Sun is located, the trip consists of a flight and a drive. I jumped on a porter flight to Boston and from there rented a car. I have only flown into Boston for work, so one day I will definitely have to come back to experience the city for itself.

I was definitely that annoying person on the flight with way too much carry on that wasn’t going to fit anywhere, but hey I am not checking a camera. A quick flight followed by an hour and a half drive and I was checked into the hotel down the street from the Mohegan Sun.

It was then time to prepare notes and have a concrete game plan for the next day. Being a videographer is one of the hardest yet most rewarding jobs because you are responsible for all aspects of the production. I needed to make sure I had my questions ready for the players, the camera batteries charged, the computer ready to edit.

After a long day of travel it was a hotel gym, followed by room service, followed by a movie kind of night. Mohegan Sun is one of the most incredible and fun casino’s I have ever been to with endless shops, restaurants, and bars, but I knew if I made my way over it would be a late night, and I sure needed my beauty sleep.

An 8 am wake-up call, I was at the Mohegan Sun for the Black Wolves shoot around at 10am. At that time I also had my first interview of the Day with the NLL Commissioner Nick Sakiewicz to talk about what is going on around the league with partners, expansion, etc.

I then had to gather b-roll and interviews for the game preview stories. Once I had gathered everything I needed I only had about 3 hours to head back to the hotel and edit the two stories and get them posted to NLL TV.

Once that was all done it was time to head back to Mohegan Sun for game time. I spent the majority of the pre-game upstairs getting some video of the crowds coming in. Fan after fan in their Black Wolves or Bandits gear. I was quite impressed with how many people packed the stands, but I didn’t realize I was in for a history making night.

The clock ticked down to the final minutes and then it was go time. I had the chance to be on the field as the players ran out of the tunnel. I don’t know how to put that experience in to words. The arena went dark, and fans got their glow sticks out to light the stands , and then all of a sudden bright lights and the players came running down the floor. I had goosebumps down my arms experiencing this from a front row seat.

The stands were full, the cheers were loud, the game was intense. The overall atmosphere can be summed up as electric. Fans with wolf heads on, or orange bandit hair. They were hard core, true lacrosse fans.

I had heard that after every Black Wolves goal, the crowd lets out a howl. It was amazing to experience this in person. The entire arena coming together and cheering on their beloved team.

The game was as tight as can be separated by one goal at half time. Both teams fighting for the ball, going back and forth with goals, back and forth with hits, back and forth with saves. It was impossible to decide who was going to come out on top.

The game wasn’t decided until less than a minute was left on the clock, and New England Black Wolves all star Kevin Crowely came up with a huge game winner. The crowd was on their feet roaring and howling.

It was at this point we were also informed that for the first time in franchise history, the New England Black Wolves had a sold out crowd. No wonder it was so loud, so energizing. It was amazing to see the standing ovation when this was announced. Fans on their feet supporting their team, supporting the game.

It was an incredible experience to be a part of history and to see the growth of this game first hand. To talk to the fans who drive from hours away to cheer on their favourite team, to support their favourite player. It made me fall even more in love with this sport.

It was incredibly fun, but also incredible tired. Once the post-game interviews were done, it was time to head back to the hotel, pack my, bags, and hit the hay because I had a flight to catch the next day.

Work trips are always hectic. There is always so much to get done. They are also some of the most amazing trips, especially when you get to experience two teams battling head to head, when you get to talk to the incredible die hard fans, when you get to feel the cheers in your soul.

Thank you for the Black Wolves and Bandits for an amazing game and an amazing experience, I can’t wait for my next game.

Now first order of business, finding time to get a massage after luging that heavy equipment around!

Can’t wait to share my next adventure with you

Mia

The Next Chapter

Why Saskatoon is a Must Visit

What makes this place special?

Day 1:

Day 2:

Top 6 in the 6 with Cabbie Richards

MIA goes MIA: Black Wolves Home Opener